Successful Mentoring Scheme

Since the NEA scheme started in 2011, there have been 193 business start-ups on the scheme. Just under 80% of all the businesses on the scheme (in Sussex and Surrey) have started trading, and 80% of these have been trading for six months or more. A testament to the benefit of having a mentor and the help and support they provide to these fledgling businesses. Impressive statistics for start-ups businesses. They have all benefited from having a volunteer business mentor. One of the business start-ups on the scheme was so successful it has been sold!

We recently spoke to several of the volunteer mentors who told us:

'Whilst my initial motive for participating in the NEA Programme was about trying to support a new business start-up and 'giving something back', I was really pleased to find the experience interesting, enjoyable, and nowhere near as time-consuming as I thought it would be. None of us knows everything, and it has been really useful to listen to the perspectives and ideas of others. It also really helps you think about and focus on many areas of your own business, which is a bonus in itself when we're all so busy. I'm glad to have been able to assist in whatever small way, and would recommend it to any business manager. You really can gain as much as you give.'

John Houlihan, Commercial Services Director, University of Sussex Students' Union

‘Mentoring is my passion. There's nothing I like more than seeing the look on people's faces when they understand their dreams can become reality. I've started working with NEA over 6 months ago and I have enjoyed meeting various potential entrepreneurs. They were all motivated and enthusiastic and I like to think I've helped them become even more sure about their future business. I've enjoyed every minute of analysing different businesses, understanding new concepts and adapting my knowledge and experience to different ideas. The best part of being a NEA mentor is sharing in the enthusiasm these entrepreneurs have about their new ventures. 

Adele Tomasin, Director, Blue Star Fruit

To date, the chamber has recruited over 60 volunteers mentors, but we are still looking for another 10 mentors each month to keep up with demand from start up businesses.

Mentors will have suitable business experience, have a friendly and patient nature, and seek the endorphin buzz that comes from helping people. 

If you would like to put yourself forward as a volunteer mentor, please contact Abby membership@businessinbrighton.org.uk

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk