Tabletop advice aims to help new businesses

UK Steel Enterprise, a subsidiary of Corus, has provided cash for so-called "tablecloth enterprise" events, which give businesses a chance to take part in a session with successful entrepreneurs.

The idea is to offer new businesses the opportunity to explore their concepts and discuss the general principles of running a business with experienced people in a relaxed and informal setting.

Discussions and thoughts are captured on a paper tablecloth and by the end of the session businesses will have refined their business idea and will have a tablecloth full of inspiring notes and ideas.

John Clarkson, who recently set up JEC Vac Solutions Ltd in Rotherham said: "The opportunity to discuss our ideas for the future with some of the leading local business entrepreneurs and obtain their advice is a great help.

"Advice on company growth, recruitment and consolidating the business has helped us further develop the Business Plan and move forward with more confidence in what we aim to achieve."

Sonia Cox, founder of Rotherham-based AIM (Accountancy in Motion) Financial Recruitment Ltd, also attended. She said: "To have this opportunity to meet and engage with successful businessmen and to gain both their positive and negative feedback at this early stage in AIM's development was fantastic and I took full advantage."

Future Tablecloth Enterprise events, organised by Rotherham Council's enterprise board, will be held across the borough, with the next on May 20 at Dinnington Business Centre.

Keith Williams, regional manager of UK Steel Enterprise, said Corus, which has a plant in Rotherham, had decided to support the scheme after it laid off workers as a result of the recession.