Four new directors to encourage entrepreneurs

The Eastern Enterprise Hub,based at UCS on Ipswich Waterfront, has unveiled four new appointments to its board of directors as it continues its fouth year of supporting the region’s entrepreneurs.

The number of people receiving support from the hub doubled last year, boosted by the opening of new offices in Colchester and Norwich in addition to the hub’s original base in Ipswich, and is expected to grow again during 2014, which could mean up to 150 additional business start-ups in the region.

Harry Berry, chairman of the hub, says its success lies in harnessing the support of local businesses and established entrepreneurs who are willing to share their experience and knowledge.

This is all overseen by a voluntary board of directors who give their own time and support to help grow enterprises around the region.

The new appointments include Chris Bally, assistant director at Suffolk County Council, Andrew Staff, chief executive at Notcutts, Jenny Milsom, vice principal at the One college, and Don Young.

Mr Berry said: “It is important that as the operation grows and expands, we have a board that represents the whole of East Anglia and so we are strengthening our team. We will be working to add to these appointments as we go through the year.”

He added: “After three and a half years of great service, Paul Winter and Judith Mobbs have stepped down from the board. I want to take this opportunity to thank them both for every moment they have contributed to establishing the hub, as they were crucial to its success.”

Simon Mead, chief executive of the Eastern Enterprise Hub, said: “I am really looking forward to working with our new board members as the hub continues to expand its offering across the East of England. We are certainly going to need their experience as we grow our hubs in Colchester and Norwich.”

New programmes at the Colchester hub include The Creative Entrepreneurs Programme, delivered in partnership with Essex County Council and The Early Stage Entrepreneurs Programme specifically for individuals who are at the beginning stages of their entrepreneurial journey.