Following a very successful pilot programme we’re pleased to be able to offer at least 14 business owners the opportunity to propel themselves and their businesses to the next level – we already have our first four sign ups! What does working with a mentor offer? Below are just some of the benefits to you and your business when working with a mentor.

• Expert guidance and insights from someone who has been there and done it – avoid common pitfalls and fast-track your success
• Networking opportunities – your mentor is very well connected allowing you to build valuable relationships and opening doors to new opportunities
• Skill development – learn new skills and strategies crucial to business growth, it’s personalised advice tailored to your needs not one size fits all
• Grow your confidence – working with a mentor gives you the confidence to make bold decisions, you won’t be alone on your journey
• Set and achieve goals – a mentor keeps you focused, accountable and motivated to set and achieve realistic goals

We’ve asked a few of the mentees supported through the pilot programme to share their experiences.

"I can honestly say that taking part in the mentoring programme and my time with Jacqui has been one of the most valuable experiences of my 12 years as a Company Director. Her support, challenge and ability to open up my thinking has really pushed me on as an individual and has taken the company to a new level. I feel that my end-goal is now a lot more achievable and I can clearly see my path to getting there. Thanks Jacqui and thanks to the programme for giving me this opportunity.” Si Withington - Lakeland Ascents

“As a new startup founder, I found the mentor scheme invaluable for clarifying my business goals and navigating the challenges of growth. My mentor, Gail, provided exceptional support and guidance throughout the process. Gail's wealth of experience and fresh perspective challenged my initial assumptions, introducing ideas I had never considered before. Her insights helped me develop and refine my thoughts into actionable plans for future implementation. One of the unique aspects of our startup, Queen Accountancy, is that it was founded by a mother-daughter team. Gail's expertise was particularly helpful in addressing the challenges of maintaining a healthy work-family balance in this context. The mentorship experience not only provided valuable business advice but also offered a supportive environment for personal growth and problem-solving.” Helen Queen – Queen Accountancy

‘Business mentoring has been so useful in helping me shape, structure and timetable key goals and in assisting me to hold myself to account for delivery. I’ve benefitted from being able to bounce ideas and perspectives around to reach conclusions and intentions that I know are thought through. I’ve also really enjoyed it.’ Julie Haywood – Julie Haywood Consulting

"I found the mentoring programme really helpful. Every month we would review one area of the business and then take action accordingly. My mentor (Gail) took the time to really understand my business and provide helpful insights. As an already busy small business owner, I found the suggested actions each month very achievable and the accountability encouraged me to take them forward.” Charlotte Davies

“My experience working with a business mentor as part of this pilot has been amazing. Prior to this opportunity I had been looking into collaborating with a mentor, but cost was an issue. This 6-month programme allowed me to collaborate with a mentor that was affordable in terms of where my business was with the aim to grow and be able to continue to collaborate with a mentor. From the start my mentor Ben Hickman and I clicked, and he understood me, my business, and my goals. Through our monthly sessions, Ben was great in helping clear the fog and gave clarity on what steps to take and what to work on that would develop the business. Prior to collaborating with Ben, I would think of a million things I thought I needed to do, did not know what to work on first and therefore nothing would get done to move the business forward. Since collaborating with Ben, I am in a stronger position, have clarity on where I am going and need to do to achieve my goals. Following the completion of the 6-month pilot, I am continuing to collaborate with Ben to continue this journey in developing both myself and my business. I would highly recommend this opportunity to anyone who is looking to develop their business as well as themselves as a business owner.” Paul Jennings – Paul Jennings Personal Coach

Georgina Goulding of Bakes by Gina has recorded a short testimonial which you can view here

Our next programme will run from September to February and we’re now looking to recruit our next cohort of mentees for just £895 +VAT (payment options are available and if based in Cumberland you could apply for £500 towards costs). We now have seven mentors ready and waiting to support you and your business – you can view profiles here If you’re interested please email Lesley Robinson – lesleyr@cumbriachamber.co.uk with the following information:

• Confirmation you can commit to the six meetings, one a month September through to February
• What you are looking to achieve by working with a mentor
• Your key objectives to achieve by February 2025