Posted by The success of women’s business groups is the inspiration behind a new networking group to support entrepreneurs with disabilities and long-term health conditions.
The Disabled Enterprise Network is the brainchild of Will Bee, from Will Bee Consultancy Ltd, a wheelchair user himself. The group aims to help businessmen and women through sharing of information, advice and tips, and organising collaboration and events.
Supporters: Clockwise from top left, Helen Harper, Roger Wilkins from Business Link, Sue Rickell and Will Bee at the launch of the Disabled Enterprise Network
In the future, the group – supported by Business Link – will lobby for financial support for disabled-led businesses, and inspire them to overcome difficulties to succeed.
“Women’s business networks have played a key role in the success of women-led businesses in the South West and so we want to see if, using the same approach, we can recreate this success for disabled entrepreneurs,” said Mr Bee.
“I hope the launch of this network will prove to be a pivotal step for disabled business owners in the region and we are grateful to Business Link for their support.”
The group’s first meeting took place at Holiday Inn on Filton Road, Bristol. At the event Sue Rickell, a disability equality trainer and consultant who has worked in the field of disability and development for over 25 years, talked about the importance of networking.
Funding for the network’s first three events has been provided by Business Link. Roger Wilkins, head of the start-up team at Business Link, said: “It’s fantastic to see such an innovative network being set up. Groups like this make a valuable contribution to the economic development of the South West and Business Link is proud to be involved in supporting this project.”
To find out more about the Disabled Enterprise Network, please contact Will Bee on 0117 908 3022 or email will@will-bee.co.uk.
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