This month is packed with events and support to help your business grow, read on!






Having trouble viewing this email? View it as a Web page [ [link removed] ].

c1


*Newsletter **of the Nottingham City Council *

*UKSPF Business Growth Hub Team*



________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________


2
Message from Growing Nottingham Team

Lisa Barton – UKSPF Local Business Manager, Nottingham City Business Growth Hub

As another calendar year draws to an end, myself and the team always take time to consider and celebrate the achievements of the wonderful businesses that we have in the city.

It has been a pleasure working with such a diverse and thriving community and my thanks goes out to all of our colleagues and partners that have made this possible.

UKSPF funding has given Nottingham City Council’s Business Growth Team the opportunity to fund and support interesting and innovative activity that makes a significant contribution to our local economy.

I hope you enjoy this edition of the Growing Nottingham Newsletter and will continue to follow our channels and comms into the new year where will continue to provide updates and opportunities to further support and encourage growth and collaboration within Nottingham.

Wishing you all a fantastic festive period and a new year filled with health, happiness and prosperity.

________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________



R
Meet the Team: Introducing Nottingham’s HR Inclusive Recruitment Specialist

We’re delighted to welcome *Rosey Donovan*, Nottingham City Council’s new HR Inclusive Recruitment Specialist, leading the development of our Inclusive Recruitment Hub.

Rosey’s role focuses on supporting local businesses and SMEs to embed inclusive, bias-free recruitment practices and create workplaces where diversity and equity thrive. The main goal is to help Nottingham businesses harness the benefits of a truly inclusive workforce, boosting innovation, productivity, and employee wellbeing.

Rosey is keen to connect with businesses across the city to explore how she can work together to make recruitment and workplace practices more inclusive.

*“Thank you for your commitment to building a fair and inclusive Nottingham. I look forward to collaborating with you.” "*"— "*"*"Rosey Donovan, HR Inclusive Recruitment Specialist"

?? Get in touch: [email protected]

 



________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________



 

2025 Event Highlights: Shaping the Future of Business in Nottingham

As we close out 2025, we reflect on a year of significant progress and impact. Through a series of strategic events, we’ve equipped Nottingham businesses with the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to thrive in the current landscape.

From unlocking funding opportunities to strengthening leadership skills and preparing founders for investment, our initiatives have driven real change across Nottingham’s business community.

1
How to Create Dynamic Content and Tell Your Story on Social Media

We kicked off the year with a practical workshop led by Mark Saxby of Status Social. Attendees learned how to create authentic, engaging content that resonates with audiences and aligns with business goals. 

*"“Mark was friendly and engaging! A really thought-provoking session that inspired some great ideas to take forward when developing new content.”"*
"— Kira Lowe, Nottingham Energy Partnership "[Event Attendee]""

2
Communication Essentials: Creating Effective Relationships

Delivered by Dr Mel Bull, Director of Executive Education at Nottingham Business School, this workshop focused on strengthening leadership through effective communication and negotiation. Participants gained practical strategies to improve clarity, engage diverse audiences, manage conflicts, and use storytelling for impactful messaging.

"*“The practical tips on active listening and building trust were game-changers. I left with strategies I can apply immediately to strengthen my business relationships.”*"
"— Esther Chan, UKSPF Business Account Manager, Nottingham City Business Growth Hub [Event Organiser]"

4
Better Results in Less Time – Be More Successful on Social Media Without It Taking Over Your Life

Another workshop led by Mark Saxby, this webinar introduced time-saving tools, AI insights, and strategies for creating quality content efficiently helping businesses achieve better results with less effort.

3
Navigating the Future of UKSPF & Business Support in Nottingham

We celebrated the success of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund programmes, showcasing impactful projects and highlighting future opportunities for Nottingham businesses. Attendees enjoyed presentations, networking, and insights from leading organisations including UON, NTU, Medilink Midlands, and NBV.

"*“ The event provided a vital platform for local entrepreneurs like us to understand upcoming funding opportunities and tailored support. It was fantastic to engage meaningfully with the Business Advisors and gain clarity on how these resources can facilitate our business growth.” *""— Esther Chan, UKSPF Business Account Manager, Nottingham City Business Growth Hub "

7
Money, Money, Money! Who Has It and How Do You Get It?

Access to finance is critical for growth. This event brought together experts from British Business Bank, First Enterprise, Minerva Business Angels, and Nottingham City Council to discuss debt, equity, and grant funding options for SMEs in Nottingham and the East Midlands.

*""A knowledgeable panel covering a wide range of finance options for businesses. Getting to the real issues and choices to be made" "— ""*"John O'Donnell, UKSPF Business Account Manager, Nottingham City Business Growth Hub " "[Event Organiser]"

5
Ready, Set & Pitch!

Entrepreneurs stepped into the spotlight to pitch their ideas to a panel of seasoned investors and business leaders. This dynamic event provided invaluable feedback, networking opportunities, and guidance on scaling and securing investment.

"*"Powerful presentations in front of a panel of experts. Constructive and supporting left a great vibe in the room" "— "*"""John O'Donnell, UKSPF Business Account Manager, Nottingham City Business Growth Hub " "[Event Organiser]""

5
Investment Readiness Training Day

Following the success of Ready, Set & Pitch, this hands-on training day helped founders prepare for the fundraising journey. Led by Martin Sandhu (Built in Notts) and Will Mellors-Blair (Mindora), the event covered investor expectations, storytelling techniques, pitch deck essentials, and data room preparation. Attendees practiced their pitches and left with actionable steps to approach investors confidently.

 

Looking Ahead to 2026 ??

Thank you to everyone who joined us this year! We’re excited to continue supporting Nottingham businesses with more events, resources, and opportunities in 2026. Stay tuned for updates!

 

________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________



2

Root Cost Analysis

When food safety problems occur, Root Cause Analysis helps you identify what went wrong and prevent it happening again. This approach protects your customers and your business from recurring issues. Sign up to the Food Standards Agency’s free online course to strengthen your food safety management.

 

Visit FSA's Website: Root Cost Analysis [ [link removed] ]

 

________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________


2
Mastering Graphic Design with Canva and Adobe Express

?? 24th February 2026 * | ??*9:30am - 4:00pm| ?? Holiday Inn Nottingham

 

*Visual content drives engagement, builds brand recognition and communicates your message faster than any other medium.*

With professional-quality design now accessible through user-friendly platforms like Canva and Adobe Express, businesses of all sizes can create stunning graphics without expensive software or extensive design experience.

From establishing a cohesive brand kit to creating animated content that captures attention, this hands-on workshop will transform your approach to visual marketing. You'll leave with ready-to-use templates, branded assets and the confidence to maintain consistent, professional visuals across all your marketing channels.

*What’s covered:*


* The importance of visual content in digital marketing and brand consistency
* Understanding and auditing your existing brand assets and visual identity
* Setting up comprehensive brand kits in both Canva and Adobe Express
* Creating professional branded graphics from scratch
* Effective product and service imagery
* Designing print materials: flyers, business cards, and promotional materials
* Integrating QR codes for seamless digital-physical marketing bridges
* Building template libraries and controlling team access and editing permissions
* Exploring AI-powered design features and content generation tools
* Hands-on creation sessions with real business applications.

 

Register Now: Master Graphic Design with Canva and Adobe [ [link removed] ]

?? Open to Nottingham businesses only. See website for more details.

 

________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________



NBV Business Start-Up Essentials

?? Multiple 2026 Dates Available * | ??*9:30am - 3:00pm| ??Online

 

Looking to start your own business? This workshop can help you transform your idea into a business. This one-day workshop can help you transform your idea into a business. Led by one of our experienced business trainers who will guide you through the nuts and bolts of starting and running a successful business.

Here at NBV we understand the challenges you face and are passionate about helping enterprising individuals start their own business.

*What we will cover on the day:*

- How do I register my business?

- What do I need to do to be legally compliant?

- What tax and National Insurance do I pay?

- Do I need to be VAT registered?

- How can I get customers for my business?

- How do I know if my idea will work?

 

Why not let our inspirational trainers impart their knowledge and experience of running their own companies, to help you build a solid foundation for your business?

Our Business Start-Up Essentials workshop is designed to equip you with the tools and practical tips to get your idea to the next level.

 

Register Now: Business Start-Up Essentials [ [link removed] ]

* Eligibility checks will be carried out.

________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________


5
The Impact of AI on Search Engine Optimisation

?? 5th February 2026 * | ??*9:30am - 12:00pm| ?? Mercure Nottingham Sherwood Hotel

 

*Discover how artificial intelligence is revolutionising search engine optimisation (SEO).*

This session explores AI-powered tools, changes in search algorithms & results, and ways to utilise AI in SEO. Learn how AI improves keyword research, content creation, and how to stay competitive in an evolving search landscape.

*What’s covered:*

AI offers valuable tools to improve SEO efficiently, but improper use can harm rankings. The session covers essential AI tools for SEO and outlines best practices to avoid negative impacts. You’ll learn how to use AI productively and avoid the pitfalls, from generating content ideas to writing large amounts of text and implementing technical features in your website.

Explore ways to use common AI tools and see examples of how they can make SEO tasks quicker and easier.

 

Register Now: The Impact of AI on Search Engine Optimisation [ [link removed] ]

 

________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________


1
Nottingham City and Nottinghamshire
Business Planning

?? Multiple 2026 Dates Available * | ??*9:30am - 3:30pm| ??Online

 

*Creating a Plan for a Profitable Business*
Our one-day comprehensive Business Planning workshop is your roadmap to build a
successful business plan. We will give you the practical skills and confidence you need
to thrive.

*What You’ll Master*
Our course covers the essential pillars of effective business planning, with a focus on
practical, real-world application. You’ll get hands-on experience with:
• Financial Fundamentals: Ensure you understand key financial areas like tax, National
Insurance (NI), and VAT.
• Marketing and Customer Connection: Learn how to research your industry,
competitors, and potential customers to inform your strategy, identify your ideal
customer, and reach your audience
• Startup and Beyond: Get a clear picture of Start-up and Running Costs you need
• Personal Financial Planning: Create a realistic Personal Survival Budget to support
yourself while your business grows.
• Forecasting for Success: Master the critical skills of Cash Flow Forecasting and Profit
and Loss Forecasting to predict and manage your business’s financial future.
• Securing Your Funding: Explore various sources of funding and learn how to secure the
capital you need to succeed.

 

Register: Business Planning Essentials Workshop [ [link removed] ]

* Eligibility checks will be carried out.

________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________


4
Vibe Coding – Using AI Prompts to Improve your Website

?? 13th January 2026 * | ??*9:30am - 04:00pm| ?? Mercure Nottingham Sherwood Hotel

Now you can use AI prompts to develop website pages, code solutions, and even build the apps you never thought you could. Rapid changes in the world of programming have been bought about through the abilities of AI. The term “Vibe coding” describes how you can now use your creativity to build solutions using only AI prompts, even if you are a non-technical person. Wow!

Not everyone is a software developer, or has dreamt of becoming one, but with AI you can bring to life those ideas that previously would require big budgets and a specialist team to realise. During this workshop you’ll learn the basics, gain practical experience, and leave the day prepared to start vibing your way to technical solutions you can use in your own business.

*Outcome*

What outcomes will be achieved?
• Basic understanding of Vibe coding
• Skills to select the right project and approach
• Understand which tools you should use
• How to prompt your way to a solution
• Things to watch out for and any potential risks
• The future of vibe coding!

 

Register Now: Vibe Coding [ [link removed] ]

** To get the best out of this workshop you should bring a laptop along on the day so that you can do some vibe-coding and follow the examples.**

________________________________________________________________________



________________________________________________________________________





_Please note that as part of the wider D2N2 Growth Hub service, Nottingham City Council may share data with partners to allow  businesses to receive updates on support related topics and opportunities. if you wish to unsubscribe then click on link below._



a




Contact the Nottingham team of the D2N2 Growth Hub on 0333 0069178

Visit our website www.d2n2growthhub.co.uk [ [link removed] ]

Follow us on Twitter @GrowingNottm [ [link removed] ]

You have received this email because you are subscribed to Nottingham City Council’s “Stay Connected” service for news and information about council services. You can review which emails you receive from us or unsubscribe by editing your subscriptions [ [link removed] ] - log in with your email address and then make your choice.

________________________________________________________________________

Cinderella at the Theatre Royal - Royal Concert Hall - click for tickets and more info [ [link removed] ]


This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Nottingham City Council · Loxley House, Station Street · Nottingham. NG2 3NG logo



body .abe-column-block { min-height: 5px; } table.gd_combo_table img {margin-left:10px; margin-right:10px;} table.gd_combo_table div.govd_image_display img, table.gd_combo_table td.gd_combo_image_cell img {margin-left:0px; margin-right:0px;} table.govd_hr {min-width: 100%;}