A new business support group in Dorset is celebrating its first three months in operation.

Ignite Business was launched by Gayleen Hodson, of Hodson Writing Services, and Nicky Bennett, Director of On Track Business Support.

It seeks to help existing and new businesses alike grow, hosting in-person networking events and workshops as well as promoting existing businesses.

Gayleen said: “We have three pillars that make up the backbone of our beliefs and our work ethic – Support, Education, and Inspiration.

“Each of these are equally valuable to us and we strive to incorporate them in every aspect of what we do.

“Supporting other businesses is vital.

“We all understand how difficult it can be to run one on your own.

“At Ignite, we believe connecting and helping each other out is the best way to assist us all in succeeding.

“Educating yourself about running a business is no small feat.

“It is a monumental task and can be daunting to approach.

“You cannot understand everything, and that’s okay.

“We can help in getting you the knowledge you need to make your business run at its best.

“Lastly, Inspiration is something we look for in all parts of life.

“Work is no exception to this.

“Being around other business owners is a fantastic way to gain insight into how to improve your business, and how others can learn from you on improving theirs.

“Conversation and community are extremely important to us at Ignite, and we want to give you the tools to feel like you can have both, whenever you need it most.”

Each month, Ignite runs three different kinds of events, to suit any kind of needs and assistance a business requires:

• A free morning coffee morning called Table Talk. This has proved particularly popular with the next on Friday September 9, 09.30-11.30am. Details can be found here.
• Workshops featuring a key speaker explaining and educating on how to advance a business within a particular aspect. The next workshop, on video marketing with Carlton Brunton of Brunton Media, is on Thursday September 15, 18.30-21.00.
  
• Networking Events: A chance to network and talk with other business owners as well as hear a key speaker talk about their own personal experiences in running their businesses. The next event is on Tuesday September 20, 19.30-22.00.

Ignite also has a Facebook support group for businesses interested in what it has to offer but too busy to attend an upcoming networking event.

Gayleen said: “Any question is a good one, and everyone is eager to help each other out.

“Whether it be feedback and criticisms on social media posts, or how to approach discussing a project with a client, there will always be support ready to help businesses make the right choice.”

Tickets – including Early Bird offers – can be purchased for individual workshops and networking events.

However, the best value for money is the monthly paid membership at £22.50 per month, including the three standard events – Table Talk, bitesize workshop and evening meet-ups.

• ignitebusiness.uk