Start up in London Libraries

In partnership with the British Library, Newham Council is delivering a new project called Start-ups in London Libraries (SiLL).
17 September 2019

The SiLL Project is a three-year project designed to support people from all walks of life to turn their business idea into a reality. Led by Newham Libraries, the project capitalises on existing public library infrastructure and resources by establishing a coordinated network of business support through public libraries across ten London boroughs.

The project supports Newham's hardworking and ambitious entrepreneurs. If you have a family or friend that is taking their first steps into entrepreneurship or looking to make their existing business stronger and more sustainable, the SiLL Project can help. The programme is free to join.

SiLL includes:

  • Regular Workshops where you can learn from industry experts about what it takes to start or grow a business. Workshop topics can include intellectual property and patents, marketing and branding, financial management, knowing your customers and how to build your business model. The next workshop is taking place on 12nd November. You can register your interest here.
  • One-to-one support ­with Newham SiLL Start-ups Champion Rashed Belal. There will be the opportunity to further explore subjects discussed in the workshop, carry out in-depth market research, and/or set a plan to obtain additional training via the British Library's vast resources. There will also be access to the British Library's business advisers.
  • A variety of resources available to boost professional development, such as networking, building a brand and access to helpful online content (webinars, business sound bites, webcasts and interviews).

Eligibility

To benefit from the SiLL project you must

  • Either have an idea for a business start-up but not yet registered with companies house or;
  • Have a small or medium sized enterprise registered but have been trading for less than 12 months

To find out more about the programme and for referrals please contact Rashed on rashed.belal@newham.gov.uk or call 020 3373 4536