28.11.2005
The University of Brighton hosted a celebration for over 70 members of ProfitNet, the self-help initiative for Hastings based businesses, to mark the group's first birthday. Helping to celebrate were other partners and stakeholders from across Sussex.
The event was opened by the University of Brighton's new Vice-Chancellor, Professor Julian Crampton. He said: "It amazed me how the various groups containing potential rivals were willing to share their business problems. It appears that ironing out problems together outweighs competitiveness. 97% of businesses taking part want to continue with the programme next year."
The programme uses the Learning Networks model developed and delivered by CENTRIM (Centre for Research in Innovation Management), to get businesses in the same sector (some of them initially competitors) to work together to find solutions to common business problems. On average this technique leads to a 31% increase in turnover. As Alan Miller from OWM&M Design, a ProfitNet member, said "ProfitNet is a business development programme."
"ProfitNet is like having a team of highly skilled consultants on hand that you don't have to pay!" said Paul Evans of Marshall Tufflex from the Manufacturing group "Three members of our group are in the final for next weeks Sussex Business Awards."
Managing Director of Telham Training, Sarah White said the programme has helped to increase her company's turnover by 300%. "Between us the members of my group had over 300 years experience in construction and technical services. I was able to build relationships, share expertise and do business with other members of the group."
The oldest member of ProfitNet, 84-year-old Owen Thompson Managing Director of start up SEADACS said: "ProfitNet removed the feeling of isolation when I first started up my business. It encouraged me to share my difficulties and my successes with similar minded people."
Liz McSheehy, from SEPIA/SEEDA commented that: "ProfitNet is networking that delivers." Leader of Hastings Borough Council, Jeremy Birch commented that: "ProfitNet can help businesses make most of the regeneration funding that is available in the area."
To ensure that the programme continues for another year the University of Brighton in partnership with Hastings Borough Council is to provide bridging funding until alternative funding streams can be identified.
This ground breaking programme takes place once a month, for a three-hour session, at the University Centre Hastings in Havelock Road, Hastings. To ensure that each session is relevant and productive, the participants were placed into focused sector based groups such as Manufacturing, business Start-Ups (up to 3 years old), Construction/Technical Services, Creative Industries, Hotels (including restaurants) and Social Enterprises.
ProfitNet is now recruiting new members. Please contact Anjuu Trevedi for more information: a.trevedi@brighton.ac.uk or 07958 515491.
Contact: Marketing and Communications, University of Brighton, 01273 643022
