Our Mission
Our goal is to reduce the digital skills gap, reduce loneliness and boost confidence.
We are dedicated to fostering economic empowerment and entrepreneurial development within disadvantaged communities. With a focus on women and young people, we aim to equip these groups with the necessary digital skills and resources to thrive as successful business owners, entrepreneurs and innovators.
The key geographical area will focus on South Tyneside, Sunderland and Newcastle upon Tyne; up to 50% of these neighbourhoods are income-deprived and women are twice as likely as men, to have less basic IT skills and not likely to be employed (more self-employed).
Upcoming taster webinars
Future Plans & Activities
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Skill Development and Training
- We aim to empower individuals and organisations through comprehensive skill development and training programs.
- This includes providing digital training opportunities for those from socially deprived backgrounds, equipping them with essential digital literacy skills.
- We will offer a range of training formats, such as instructor-led workshops, peer mentoring, and online courses, to cater to diverse learning styles.
- Additionally, we will focus on entrepreneurial training, providing individuals with the knowledge and tools to start and grow their own businesses.
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Community and Women Empowerment
- Our organisation is committed to fostering community empowerment, with a particular focus on women.
- We will create platforms for women to share skills, resources, and experiences, and to build strong networks.
- By organising events and initiatives, we aim to bridge the digital gender divide and encourage greater participation of women in technology.
- Our efforts will involve close collaboration with the local community to identify specific needs and develop tailored programs.
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Business Growth and Networking
- We offer a comprehensive suite of business support services to help entrepreneurs at all stages of their journey.
- From providing essential information and advice to offering one-to-one mentoring and coaching, we are dedicated to nurturing business growth and success.
- We will create opportunities for networking and collaboration among businesses through events and online platforms.
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Digital Inclusion and Support
- To maximise the impact of our initiatives, we will connect individuals and businesses with essential resources.
- This includes providing access to funding opportunities, networking events, and industry partnerships.
- By facilitating these connections, we aim to create a supportive ecosystem that enables growth and innovation.
- Our technical consultancy services will provide practical support to address specific business challenges.
What is a Community Interest Company (C.I.C)?
TLDR; A non-profit organisation, set up with the sole intention of helping the community. Any profit is re-invested back into the company - no Directors take a salary or dividend.
According to the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, the Office of the Regulator of Community Interest Companies states:
A community interest company (CIC) is a limited liability company incorporated under the Companies Act 2006 by the Registrar of Companies with the specific aim of providing benefit to a community. It must conform to company and insolvency law in the same way as other UK companies. In addition it is regulated under the Companies (Audit, Investigations and Community Enterprise) Act 2004 (“CAICE Act 2004”) and the CIC Regulations 2005 with an asset lock and benefit to an identified community.
The level of governance, the members rights and duties and the statutory filing requirements, all adhere to UK and European company law and guidelines, including rules on insolvency, accountancy, and governance, in the same way as any other UK company. Listed CICs have to comply with the Combined Code on Corporate Governance, or any other codes (such as those issued by institutional investors).
Can you help us with a quick anonymous survey?
It will only take about 5 minutes to complete, very easy questions, but will help us a bunch!
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