The Guardian: How to build a business community

Whatever challenges you face as a business owner, they can be eased with the help of a solid network of contacts. Taking the initiative to build a local network can help your business grow and the community to thrive.

Four years ago, business coach Ed Goodman moved to St Ives in Cambridgeshire with his wife, Nicky Smerdon-Goodman. Goodman was originally from London and didn’t know anyone in Cambridge. So when he went freelance he was at a loss on how to build business connections.

Goodman had coached in the small business sector for nine years, while Smeardon-Goodman had business administration experience. The couple found there was a gap in the market for small business advice in Cambridgeshire, one they could fill with their expertise. In late 2011 they came up with their business venture – a co-working space for startups; somewhere to build connections and hold events. By January 2013 they launched the Cambridge Business Lounge (CBL) – a business centre in the middle of the city.

To read the full story please go on to The Guardian website.

Photograph: Alamy