14 Focus on Bexley
One to One Business Information Sessions The One to One business information advice service offered by Bexley Libraries is available remotely via Skype to support start-ups.
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f you are you thinking of starting a new business or have an early stage business that you want to grow, one to one business information sessions can help you; • Identify business information needs and discover what support is available. • Create an action plan to help you progress in your goal of starting your business. • Receive help in researching your business idea. The sessions are part of the Startups in London Libraries programme and must be booked in advance. To find out more please visit https://arena.yourlondonlibrary. net/web/bexley/business-support
Bexley’s Business Newsletter
If you are a start-up or local business in Bexley sign up to receive our weekly Bexley for Business email newsletter and receive the latest information, support and guidance.
You can sign up at https://www.bexley.gov.uk/stayinformed-about-subjects-youchoose
July 2020
Creativity in the heart of Bexley Creativity, design, start-ups and new technology can all be found at The Engine House in Bexley. Following a significant refresh in 2020, The Engine House is a hub for start-ups, entrepreneurs and thriving businesses, with a range of flexible spaces and options to use them.
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s we emerge from the Covid-19 pandemic, it is clear that the real estate requirements of many businesses will have changed forever. Organisations whose workforces have adapted well to homeworking may now be seeking more flexible, cost effective solutions, such as that offered by The Engine House. The building, which is located within easy distance of Abbey Wood and Belvedere stations and a good road network, has had a complete overhaul and has over 120,000 square feet of flexible studio and office facilities. It has more than 50 modern studios, hot desks and fixed desk spaces as well as event space. It houses some of the latest technology for video conferencing and meeting rooms. Its in-house business development team offer services such as rapid
prototyping, AutoCAD courses, e-commerce support and training in social media marketing. There is also an on site café. It offers start-ups, entrepreneurs and small to medium enterprises flexible and modern workspace. The aim is to provide not just a desk, but the space, facilities and a network to develop and grow businesses. Over the last year, the creative team have been working closely with local companies on some exciting new projects and have led the way in developing new ways of manufacturing. These include converting 2D drawings of train components into reliable, costeffective 3D printed parts and laser cutting materials for the fashion industry. During the pandemic, The Engine House team,
used in-house technology such as 3D printing, laser cutting, and CAD design to produce a range of vital PPE visors and face masks. The team have adapted facilities so that they are COVID secure and are now working on ways to offer more online services for AutoCAD training and virtual viewings.
To find out more about The Engine House Bexley go to www.enginehousebexley.co.uk or call 020 8320 1000
‘Over the last year, the creative team have been working closely with local companies on some exciting new projects and have led the way in developing new ways of manufacturing.’