The new hub aims to provide a platform for residents to learn, network and unlock free and low-cost information in a welcoming space that has access to PCs, desks and Wi-Fi, including access to the subscription sites in libraries or from home for being a library member. The BIPC hub is located on the first floor of Edmonton Green Library and will deliver free business support, including a two-day start-up programme called Kickstart Your Business. The workshop will assist local entrepreneurs in either launching or expanding their businesses, projects, or ideas. From one-to-one support and mentoring from business experts to a comprehensive package of online support, entrepreneurs, business owners and anyone with a vision in Enfield are encouraged to take advantage of the many resources available. The launch will be delivered as a joint initiative from Enfield Council’s Inclusive Growth and Skills team and Libraries Service.
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Planning and Regulatory Services, Cllr Susan Erbil, said: “This is a fantastic collaboration between Enfield Council and the National British Library to bring the BIPC hub to the borough and deliver on our pledge to support the local entrepreneurs of Enfield. Creative entrepreneurship is a vital part of the new economic landscape in Enfield.”
Enfield Council’s Cabinet Member for Environment, Culture and Public Spaces, Cllr Chinelo Anyanwu, said: “Whatever stage you are at with your business, the BIPC hub will support and guide you through turning your business idea into a reality.”
Isabel Oswell, Director of Business Audiences at the British Library, said: “Helping businesses to innovate and grow is one of the British Library’s core purposes and we are thrilled to welcome Enfield Council and Edmonton Green Library to the network of Business & IP Centres in London. This exciting collaboration will help us to open up the path to self-employment or business ownership for anyone who walks through the doors of their local library, reinforcing the British Library's commitment to democratising entrepreneurship and supporting economic growth at local, regional and national levels.”
Lisa Johnson, Founder of OWN THE BEACH and an ambassador for BIPC Enfield, said: “The benefits I've reaped from the BIPC are numerous. They've guided me through the less glamorous, but oh-so-crucial aspects of running a business. The BIPC Enfield, with the support of Enfield Council, is set to be a cornerstone for our local business community, providing a platform where ideas can flourish, and businesses can thrive.”
Enfield Council is the sixth London borough to join the Business & IP Centre (BIPC) network. The project is funded by the British Library, six participating London boroughs and supported by JPMorgan Chase. Enfield Council has further been allocated £118,000 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to drive the project forward.
The hub at Edmonton Green Library officially launched on 31 July and resources can now be accessed easily. For more information on the Enfield BIPC hub and the services offered, visit Business Information and Advice webpage.