20 Pathways 2 Enterprise (P2E) clients have recently received expert support and advice from Mark Gibbs, local businessman and entrepreneur who has been self employed for over 20 years.  He ran his own award winning plastics business from 1988, but when the company liquidated in 2006 at the height of the credit crunch, he then had to work his way up again from the bottom of the business ladder – pursuing various ventures to make a living.  Mark now owns Climate Care Global limited, together with partner Mark Eyres, and was able to talk to clients about the highs and lows of starting and running a business.

Through a series of seminars, Mark gave clients his personal top tips for business start up and was clear on  how to build a successful business.  He said, “the most important part of running a business is you because you are your own business.  When you have an idea that you think is brilliant, it’s about having courage, not confidence, to take a leap of faith and make it happen.”Mark said, “I have particularly enjoyed talking to the P2E clients because I have been where they are.  I would attend any workshops or seminars which would help me.  I didn’t always agree with some of the things I was told, but I would always learn something new to help me move forward.  Hopefully my seminars will have supported and motivated P2E clients.”Clients attending the seminars have found Mark’s advice invaluable.  One client in particular said “Mark’s experience has shown me that it is possible to set up a business and make it a success”, while another said “Mark has inspired me.  His expert advice has really built upon the support I have been receiving from my Enterprise Coach.  I am going to make it work!”

Claire Peake, P2E Enterprise Coach said “It was an enriching experience to hear from someone who has been on such a rollercoaster ride in business.  It was a true inspiration to anyone thinking of setting up in business or who has encountered setbacks in their business to never give up.

“It helped our clients who are exploring the idea of starting a business by opening their eyes even more to the journey they may be facing, including its ups and downs.  These seminars enhance our work as Enterprise Coaches by bringing real experiences to our clients, and for them to hear different perspectives on varied aspects of business from the entrepreneurs.”

The P2E project supports people across the Black Country with self employment ideas through working one to one with Enterprise Coaches, and via learning workshops.  For more information about the project, contact Network Consortium on 01902 572020.