A new network, designed specifically for micro businesses and sole traders, has launched in Northamptonshire.
Local Micro Network was founded by web designer Marie Baker, event organiser Kerry Baker and graphic designer James Mossop, after they
noticed a gap in the market for events and support for sole traders, freelancers, start-ups and micro businesses.
The network, which also offers an annual membership for a low cost of £25, was officially launched at an event at the Hampton By Hilton in Corby.
Going forward, Marie, Kerry and James plan to hold events all over the county. Marie runs two web development businesses, Poppy Design Studio and Poppy Eco Hub, and recently won runner up at the Small Business Growth Awards in the Start-Up Business Award category.
She said: “Having started and run businesses ourselves, we understand everything that entails. I also work closely with start-ups and micro businesses every day through Poppy Design Studio, helping them to establish themselves online and generate enquiries and leads.
“We started Local Micro Network to provide a welcoming group for micro businesses, freelancers, start-ups and small business owners who want to build genuine connections without the pressure of hard selling or delivering an awkward networking pitch.”
Kerry started Polka Dot Events, her own event management company, in 2018. She added: “I have worked with Marie and James for years on various projects and we all got talking about the lack of support and events for people who worked on their own or in a small team. Running a business in the current climate is hard and can be lonely if you are doing it on your own or remotely, away from your small team. We wanted to bring like-minded people together who can share ideas, work together and support one another.”
“I regularly attend networking events and have made some great connections over the years,” said James, who works as a freelance graphic designer under the company name of The Pink Octopus. “However, some people are intimidated by networking, especially when they are just starting out. In my view, networking should not feel intimidating. It should feel natural, friendly and worthwhile.
“Local Micro Network has been created to bring business owners together in a relaxed environment where real conversations can happen, collaborations can grow and everyone feels welcome.
“Whether you are just starting out, growing your business, freelancing, working from home or looking for more local connections, Local Micro Network gives you a space to meet people who understand the journey.”
The next Local Micro Network meeting will take place on Thursday 11th June at Hampton By Hilton, Corby from 9.30am to 11am. You don’t have to be a member to attend and places cost £10 per person. Future events will be held on the second Thursday of every month.
For more information on Local Micro Network, see https://localmicronetwork.com.
