LIDDESDALE has been chosen as one of three rural areas to receive Scottish government backing for a new business creation project designed for women.
It follows the success of a pilot scheme which helped a group of military wives to set up their own businesses.
Liz Dadd, who took part in the pilot scheme, says the experience has been empowering.
“I had a business idea before the course but I didn’t have the knowledge on starting a business.
“The course taught me about writing a business plan, branding and finance.
“Being in the group gave us all the confidence to turn our ideas into reality.”
Army wife and mother, Jade, who had struggled to work because of chronic pain and fatigue from fibromyalgia, says the Business Start-Up course gave her space to reflect on her own strengths, skills and talents.
“She had been feeling a loss of identity but the course gave her the confidence boost she needed to launch her own business, Handmade by Jade.
Newcastleton and District Community Trust (NDCT) will run the free online course in conjunction with Development Trusts Association Scotland and Women’s Enterprise Scotland.
WES, which works to create an environment in which women-led businesses can flourish and grow, is keen to emphasise that they don’t need to have a business idea to join the course.
It’s specifically designed for women with little or no experience and to be a non-threatening and supportive environment in which to build confidence, explore enterprising ideas and support any future business development.
The course will be led by WES and Claire Musson of NDCT will be the facilitator for the Eskdale, Liddesdale and Teviot area cohort.
She said: “We are looking for women in Eskdale, Teviot and Liddesdale to take part.
“We are particularly keen to work with women who are looking to explore their potential and start something new, especially if they are from an agricultural background.
“Please get in touch if you have questions or to register your interest.”
Expressions of interest can be sent to Claire.musson@newcastletoncommunitytrust.co.uk