West Nottinghamshire College is launching a major new initiative designed to support local businesses and strengthen the regional economy.
Hayley Wood outside the college’s Mansfield Ambition Exchange, which will host the monthly series of free business-support events.
Starting this month, the college will host a monthly programme of free business-support events, giving entrepreneurs and business owners the opportunity to connect, learn, share insights and build strong foundations for long-term success.
The series, delivered in partnership with local organisations and supported by Mansfield MP Steve Yemm, will take place at the college’s Mansfield Ambition Exchange on the Chesterfield Road campus on the last Friday of every month.
It begins with an event titled Growth Capital Opportunities on Friday 30 January, from 9.30am-12.30pm.
This inaugural event will offer practical guidance for business owners looking to scale-up and invest, with a particular focus on accessing non-traditional sources of finance.
The session will explore a wide range of funding options, including equity investment through venture capital and business angels, alongside more established routes such as bank lending, government grants and asset finance.
It will also feature real-life case studies from local businesses that have successfully secured growth capital, providing practical insight and inspiration for those looking to take their next steps.
Guest speakers include Mr Yemm, Mansfield Mayor Andy Abrahams, and Lewis Stringer, senior manager in the UK network team at the British Business Bank, and representatives of national organisations specialising in innovative finance solutions.
The monthly events are designed to give local businesses access to expert advice, practical support and the confidence to tackle key challenges, strengthen performance and contribute to regional prosperity through shared knowledge and collaboration.
Future sessions will cover essential topics including AI for business, digital marketing strategies and reducing business crime, with the Mansfield Ambition Exchange acting as a central hub for business networking and intelligence.
The college’s head of business and professional studies, Hayley Wood, said: “Local businesses face real challenges, especially when it comes to securing funding and adapting to change. These events are about giving business owners clear, practical advice they can use straight away.
“By bringing experts and businesses together, we want to build confidence, share what works, and help more enterprises succeed right here in Mansfield and Ashfield and thrive in a competitive environment.”
The college’s £8.8m Mansfield Ambition Exchange, which opened in September, already hosts monthly meetings of the Mansfield and Ashfield Business Network, connecting employers across both districts.
By launching its own business-support events in partnership with local organisations, the college aims to further establish the centre as a key hub for helping businesses thrive.
To secure your free place at Growth Capital Opportunities, visit: Growth Capital Opportunities Tickets, Fri, Jan 30, 2026 at 9:30 AM | Eventbrite