Businesses keen to learn from Dragons Den Guru

Torbay Development Agency is pleased to announce that 349 business delegates from across the south west peninsula have already signed up for the FREE regional event at the Riviera Centre on 8 February: 21st Century Business - Growing Startups in the UK.

The event is the second day of a two-day programme running on 7 and 8 February instigated by central Government to boost the regional economy, in partnership with leading business support organisation School for Startups. There are 400 delegate places at this regional event which is open to all businesses throughout the region, with particular relevance to new startups. Torbay is host to the only one of these national events in the south west peninsula region, the next nearest event is being held in Bristol.

From the 8 February event - 21st Century Business - delegates will come away with a firm understanding of how to build a lasting business based on a tried and tested curriculum presented by Doug Richard, former panel member from BBC’s ‘Dragons Den’. The programme will cover key areas for success including: how to create exceptional products; 10 questions a business plan must address; how to market products/services cost effectively; how and when to seek finance to help business growth and how to identify key industry risks that may limit success. Doug’s advice will help business managers learn how to increase sales, save money and go global. A fantastic networking opportunity with a chance to meet other businesses, entrepreneurs and renowned business mentor Doug Richard himself.

Doug Richard said: “The potential in Torbay is tremendous, and with the government backed development plans there is a real opportunity for companies young and old to benefit. Come along to both our events and learn the best of the digital tricks and techniques and which pitfalls you should avoid”

Torbay Development Agency’s Director of Economic Strategy, Alan Denby, said: “The popularity of the event it testament to the drive and enthusiasm we have in Torbay to develop as a centre for business excellence and growth. This is the start of a great year for Torbay, with the announcement of the new link road and the hosting of this nationally acclaimed event on behalf of the region, we are showing our true potential as a thriving business location."

If you are an entrepreneur, leader or manager of a business, and want to know how to increase your profitability for the long term, register now for this unique event. Places are limited, free buffet lunch included. For more details and to register visit www.torbaydevelopmentagency.co.uk/21centurybusiness

There are still exhibitor spaces and sponsorship opportunities available for this high profile event. Contact Helena Davison, 01803 207915 or email:

Places are also available for the first of the two events: Web Fuelled Business - on 7 February; also at the Riviera International Centre and run by School for Startups. Registration is free for both events and is available at the above link. Delegates can register for one or both of the events and there is a discounted accommodation package at Torquay’s Grand Hotel available through the Riviera International Conference Centre for delegates. ‘Web Fuelled Business’ is brought to you with the backing and sponsorship of government department Business Innovation and Skills (BIS), and School for Startups, who are presenting a national programme in England between January and March 2012. The full roll out will include twelve one-day events involving at least 3,500 small businesses throughout England.