A pioneering event providing support for women looking to start their own businesses in East Dunbartonshire has been declared an "amazing" success.
Business Gateway East Dunbartonshire held the three-hour session recently in response to demand from local people seeking information and support on self-employment.
The event - hosted at Boclair House Hotel, Bearsden - included expert advice, breakout sessions and networking opportunities, facilitated by Anna Bell Coaching.
All 30 places were taken and there was a reserve list of people who were keen to attend.
Participants had the chance to meet with peers and discuss aspirations, concerns, qualities it takes to run your own business and support available.
Councillor Jim Gibbons, Convener of the Council's Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee, said, "The Council delivers a range of business support services within East Dunbartonshire - including the Business Gateway programme - and this is the first event of its type to be held locally.
"We're delighted with the response and the feedback has been exceptional. We will be running similar events in future, as well as more networking events for people who attended the session in Bearsden.
"A huge amount of support is available locally for anyone starting their own businesses or looking to expand an existing enterprise."
The event on 6 September was attended by people of all ages, including returnees to work after periods of family leave, others looking for a new challenge and those with an existing business.
One attendee said, "I want to congratulate you on an amazing event. I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I got so much out of it - speaking to other women at different stages of their entrepreneurial journey, realising we are all in the same boat. I got wonderful ideas and support from everyone."
Look out for a similar event being held on Wednesday 25 October in The Eagle Lodge, Bishopbriggs. Business support events are held regularly for anyone in East Dunbartonshire looking to start up a new, or grow an existing, business.
Visit www.bgateway.com/local-offices/east-dunbartonshire or call 0141 530 7498.
For information on Council services, visit www.eastdunbarton.gov.uk/business
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