Starting a business can be exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. For Craig, founder of Dickinson’s Lawn and Plant Services, taking the first steps into self-employment came with both ambition and uncertainty.
Like many new business owners, Craig knew he wanted to create something of his own, but navigating the early stages of business planning, networking, opportunities and growth support can be challenging. That is where Wirral Chamber of Commerce was able to step in and provide guidance.
Through the Chamber’s business support programme, Craig was connected with a dedicated Business Advisor, Andy Edwards, who worked with him to understand his goals, listen to his ideas, and help him identify opportunities that may not have been obvious at the start.
Craig explained:
“From taking the plunge of starting a new business and being a bit overwhelmed by it all at times, Wirral Chamber has been so supportive in helping to guide me towards opportunities that I would not have known about or even considered.”
The support provided was not just practical. It also helped Craig build confidence as a business owner. Having someone to listen, challenge, advise and encourage him gave him the momentum to explore different avenues and believe in the future of the business.
“Being listened to and helped by a Business Advisor, in my case the brilliant Andy Edwards, has enabled me to grow in confidence and gain momentum, pursuing different avenues, and helping me to truly believe that the business can move forward.”
Alongside one-to-one advice, Craig also benefited from the Chamber’s free networking events. These sessions gave him the chance to meet other people who were also starting new ventures, helping him feel part of a wider business community.
For many start-ups, networking can feel daunting at first. However, Craig found the events welcoming and valuable, creating a sense of togetherness with other local entrepreneurs facing similar challenges.
“The free networking events are great. Meeting like-minded people who are all starting new ventures has helped me feel at ease, and it’s nice to feel that togetherness as well.”
The combination of direct business advice, access to resources, networking opportunities and regular communication has helped Craig move forward with greater clarity and confidence.
His experience highlights the role Wirral Chamber of Commerce plays in supporting local people to turn business ideas into reality, while helping new businesses feel connected, supported and encouraged from the very beginning.
Craig added:
“The resources and direct communication have been fantastic too. It shows the Chamber’s commitment to help local businesses thrive. Thoroughly recommended.”
Outcome
Through Wirral Chamber’s support, Craig has been able to:
- Gain confidence as a new business owner
- Access guidance from a dedicated Business Advisor
- Explore new opportunities for growth
- Attend free networking events
- Build connections with other start-up businesses
- Feel supported as part of Wirral’s wider business community
Craig’s journey with Dickinson’s Lawn and Plant Services is a strong example of how targeted start-up support can help local entrepreneurs move from uncertainty to action, creating the confidence and momentum needed to build a sustainable business.
To access fully funded support please contact info@wirralchamber.co.uk