Clive Lewis MP visited enterprise agency Nwes, and some of its Norwich-based clients to understand the importance of it’s support for start-up and growing businesses.

Visiting the Norwich Enterprise Centre on Guildhall Hill in the heart of the city, the Member of Parliament for Norwich South spent some time finding out about the support that Nwes offers to budding entrepreneurs.

As a champion for small businesses, Mr Lewis met with Nwes Business Advisors, Victoria Williamson and Ian Bird.  Mr Lewis was keen to hear more about the challenges faced by new business owners, and the value of the knowledge and expertise provided by Nwes.  He then moved on to meet two clients supported by the enterprise agency; Figbar on Charing Cross, and Lasagneria on the historic Norwich marketplace.

Jaime and Stephanie Garbutt of Figbar acknowledged the hard work that was involved in being a business start-up, but stressed the value of ongoing support from Nwes, which included a free finance course and 1-to-1 advice sessions with an Nwes Business Advisor.  Fig Bar has been warmly welcomed into the Norwich Lanes community of independent businesses and, with ongoing support from Nwes, is a shining example of what can be achieved.

“We loved having Nwes visit Figbar with MP Clive Lewis.”  Stephanie says.

“As a small, independent, family business, it means a lot that MPs will take the time to find out what is important to us and what impacts us both positively and negatively, and it’s great that Nwes actively engages with local businesses in this way.”

Mr Lewis is equally enthusiastic about engaging with local business owners.

“I wanted to visit Nwes to understand more about what it offers.  Small businesses are the lifeblood of Norwich, and indeed the country.  There are risks, but there are also big rewards, and the impact that small and growing businesses have on our economy is huge.”  Mr Lewis explains.

Passionately believing that small business success stories are the way forward, Mr Lewis learnt more about what is available through Nwes for those who wish to start or grow their business, including free business advice, workshops, access to finance (including Start Up Loans), and workspace at it’s thriving business centres in the East of England, London and the East Midlands.

Also meeting Mr Lewis was Paolo Grazzini of Lasagneria on Norwich market.  Coming from a family of chefs in Italy, Paolo was inspired to make something authentic for visitors to Norwich Market to enjoy, and sought the support of Nwes to follow his dream of making and selling lasagne.

Mr Lewis was interested to hear more about Lasagneria, and Paolo’s plans for the future of the business, as well as sampling some of Paolo’s authentic lasagne, which has proved to be extremely popular with visitors to Norwich market.  In addition to the Start Up Loan which provided Paolo with the springboard he needed to launch the business in December 2016, he will continue to receive support to develop the business through the Start & Grow programme, also delivered by Nwes.

“Although being my own boss is a real highlight and accomplishment, nothing beats the feeling of seeing my customers buy, eat, and really enjoy the food that I put my heart and soul into.”  Paolo says.

“For Nwes, it’s about educating people about what support is available to help them to turn a business idea into reality.”  says Victoria Williamson, Nwes Senior Business Advisor.

“The skillset and expertise of Nwes is second-to-none, and we are immensely proud that we are a trusted resource for so many start-up and growing businesses.”

“You can’t put a value on good advice.”  Mr Lewis continues.

“The knowledge, support and advice available through Nwes make a huge difference.”

Find out more about free Nwes workshops in your area and start your entrepreneurial journey today.