Andrew was already utilising his own time and finances whilst employed, to refresh his electrical qualifications as he had previously worked as a qualified electrician.
When he became redundant, he sought mentor support from the Communities for Work Plus team and decided to utilise part of his redundancy package, along with financial support from Communities for Work Plus, to complete the 18th Electrical regulations and a number of supporting regulatory courses to allow him to consider setting up A.M Electrical Services.
Andrew attended a BG Effect Fund business start-up drop in session at Ebbw Vale library to discuss his plans to start self-employment and with additional support from Business Wales, produced a business plan to enable him to submit an application for grant funding for electrical tools and equipment to start his own business.
The BG Effect Business Fund scheme and Communities for Work Plus team worked collaboratively to ensure that Andrew required the necessary support required to start up his own business and it has been inspiring to watch how Andrew’s confidence in his belief to progress his new business has grown over the last few months.
Anyone thinking of starting up their own business can attend one of the weekly business drop in sessions that are held in libraries around the borough or contact the Economic Development Unit directly on 01495 355700 for more details.
Cllr Dai Davies, Executive Member for Regeneration and Economic Development at Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council, said:
“With the support of The BG Effect Business Fund scheme and other partners, Andrew was able to kick start his own business. The Council is pleased to be supporting another business in the area, which will help support the local economy. We encourage businesses and individuals to contact the Council’s Economic Development Team, whether you are an existing business or thinking about setting up a business. I wish Andrew and his business success.”
For Business support and advice visit: https://www.blaenaugwentbusinesshub.co.uk/