Horsham Microbiz has successful eleventh year

Judging by the markedly enthusiastic feedback from exhibitors and visitors, Microbiz 2013 fully lived up to its promise as over 500 people poured into the Drill Hall in Horsham to attend the popular event.

The atmosphere throughout the entire day was buzzing with exhibitors and visitors who got the chance to network all day, whilst hundreds of delegates soaked up the valuable advice provided at the eight free business training seminars.

Most of the visitors that attended this year’s Microbiz event were small business owners looking to network, take advantage of the free business seminars and source new suppliers.

There were also visitors who were thinking of starting a business, who came along seeking inspiration and solid advice.

John Peel, chairman of Coast to Capital, Local Enterprise Partnership, opened the event again this year and is a big supporter of Microbiz, staying for most of the day to speak to exhibitors.

John also judged the best dressed exhibition stands. After much consideration, the award for the best dressed large exhibition stand went to Woodstock IT and the award for best dressed small exhibition stand went to Cakes by Sharon Walker.

Roger Paterson, Horsham District Council’s cabinet member for the local economy, said: “A big congratulations to Horsham’s small business community for making Microbiz a huge success again this year.

“It is also good to see the number of successful exhibitors who were once originally visitors to an earlier fair. I’d also like to thank the presenters of the eight seminars for magnificent support at this event.

“By any measurement, it is a striking achievement that Microbiz has been able to provide an introduction to business skills training for so many business start-ups over the last 11 years.

“Business research consistently shows businesses that involve themselves in business training last longer than their peers.”

Horsham Microbiz was sponsored by Citibase plc, Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership, Dee Blick of The Marketing Gym, Federation of Small Businesses, Foundry Press Ltd, Horsham District Council, Horsham Publications Ltd, Horsham Training Centre, Spofforths Chartered Accountants, The District Post, University of Chichester, West Sussex County Council and West Sussex County Times.