The Somerset Business Mentoring Programme

Released On 27th Jan 2023

Somerset County Council is launching an ambitious business mentoring programme to match the very best across the nation. In recognition of the contribution mentoring makes to the success of micro, small and medium size business growth in the UK, twenty experienced active and retired business people will be recruited as mentors. The Business Mentoring Programme will be the catalyst for a mentoring network to unlock the knowledge and potential to support businesses across the county. With time, it will involve a growing band of mentors supporting countless thriving Somerset businesses.

Mentors will be selected from executive and senior management level business leaders, or successful entrepreneurs. They will understand the challenges associated with running and growing a business and the value of impartial advice; offer sector experience or a specialism such as growth strategy, finance, marketing, HR or e-commerce; and above all, be willing to give up their time for free to make a difference.

Successful applicants will be provided with skills development workshops, support from the programme leaders and the opportunity to learn from the experience of fellow mentors through networking. Mentors will work with local businesses, social enterprises and/or charities in Somerset. They will attend a two-day training workshop in preparation of delivering the programme (early 2023) and meet regularly with their mentee. They will spend at least twelve hours with each mentee over a three-month period (commencing April 2023).

“Growing businesses need to evolve, change and sometimes renew, often in ways that are outside the experience of the founder. A good mentor has been there already and can strategize, challenge and inspire confidence. An ambitious founder will challenge the mentor. I’ve seen founders grow and business flourish through mentoring” Paul Cartwright, Chairman of Dorset Business Mentors The application process for mentors is open now and closes at the end of February 2023. Applications for Mentees open on 1 January 2023 and close on 31 January 2023. The mentor selection process will take place in February and training workshops will follow in March. The aim is for mentors to begin working with their mentees by 2023.

For further information, please contact Richard Swift at rswift@somerset.gov.uk ASAP.