Mapping a route to business success

A ground-breaking interactive map will, for the first time, offer businesses in Suffolk a simple view of publicly-funded support that can help them on their journey to success.

Businesses are often confused by the array of business support services available to them. However, the East of England Development Agency’s (EEDA’s) new online Business Map will take them on a clearly-defined route through the services according to their specific needs. The ultimate aim is to help businesses compete more effectively in the global marketplace.

Inspired by the design of an underground map, each ‘line’ represents a different area of support or advice. From increasing sales to employing staff, maximising growth opportunities to finding the right source of finance - the map is the ideal starting point for any business seeking support. As the journey continues, businesses are taken through a number of ‘stations’ offering practical solutions to today’s business challenges.

Speaking at the launch of the Business Map, EEDA’s chair Richard Ellis said:

“The East of England has a thriving and entrepreneurial business community, with over 430,000 businesses. We have been listening very carefully to what those businesses are asking for, and one clear and reoccurring theme is the need to explain what is often perceived as a complicated landscape - public sector business support.

“If businesses want to continue to flourish in our region, it is absolutely essential that they have access to the right support that is tailored to their needs. The Business Map has been developed with this in mind, and is truly unique as it provides businesses, regardless of their size, sector or aspiration, with an easy-to-access and visually-led explanation of the support options they could take advantage of. Business Link, which is supported in the East of England by EEDA, remains the first port of call for businesses looking for advice and support, but the map gives them the full range of options available.”

Businesses should visit www.bizmapeast.com to start their journey today.