Worcestershire BIPC drives economic growth

In the report, Democratising Entrepreneurship 2.0  published this month by the British Library, female entrepreneurs are revealed as the top beneficiaries. 

Between January 2021 and March 2023, the Worcestershire BIPC in Worcestershire Libraries:

• supported a range of entrepreneurs, of which 72% were women, 10% identified themselves as from a minority ethnic community, 12% were disabled, 13% were aged 35 and under.
• helped to create 531 new businesses and 158 additional jobs
• generated 7,735,498 Gross Value Added (GVA)

According to the report, since the Worcestershire BIPC was established in 2021, for every £1 of public money spent across the BIPC network, it has contributed to a payback of over £6.

The BIPC in Worcestershire Libraries are physical hubs where people can learn, and access free and low-cost information and support in protecting and commercialising a business idea, as well as networking with others. 

The service comprises:

• Free access to high-quality UK and global market intelligence, customer insights and company data (worth over £5m), combined with intellectual property advice and guidance
• Free and low-cost workshops, one-to-one support and mentoring delivered by library staff and public/private sector business experts and partners
• Topical and inspirational networking events, featuring role model entrepreneurs
• Accessible and welcoming spaces with access to PCs, desks and Wi-Fi, meeting rooms and co-working spaces
• A comprehensive package of online support; including webinars, one-to-one business and IP advice sessions and screenings of our programme of inspirational panel discussions

Suki Pantal, Founder of Suki’s Curries and Spices said: “The BIPC has been so supportive to me throughout my journey of launching the company. I’ve attended a lot of the webinars and they’ve advised me on getting my website done and about IP rights. The support has been tremendous to a lot of new and upcoming small businesses.”

Councillor Marcus Hart, Cabinet Member for Communities at Worcestershire County Council added: “We are delighted at the recognition received by BIPC Worcestershire from the British Library. BIPC Worcestershire has had a significant impact on the local economy by supporting local businesses and entrepreneurs, providing free business support and expert advice to ensure their thriving and successful journey.”

Isabel Oswell, Head of Business Audiences at the British Library said: 'This month marks 50 years since the British Library first began operations and helping businesses to innovate and grow continues to be one of the Library’s core purposes. This report reiterates the unique power of libraries as engines of innovation, economic growth and social mobility in the heart of diverse communities. Whether you consider yourself an entrepreneur, freelancer or just have an idea, the Business & IP Centre Network provides accessible, free and impartial support, delivered by dedicated informed professionals and trusted business experts, both online and in person across the UK.’ 

The full Democratising Entrepreneurship 2.0 report, including a range of case studies, can be downloaded from the British Library’s website.

You can find out more about Worcestershire BIPC on the library section of the Worcestershire County Council's website.