Small rural businesses encouraged to use web

Small businesses in the West Country have been urged to harness the power of the internet to boost their firms.

South Somerset Together (SST), a partnership of local organisations including the county council and Chamber of Commerce, is funding the initiative to help businesses improve their online marketing and sales.

The programme has so far attracted more than 150 applications, which SST said highlights the need for rural businesses to have more IT support and knowledge.

Paul Robathan, chairman of the organisation, commented: "We're in a hugely competitive world.

"Therefore, it is vital to provide rural businesses in particular with support to strengthen and increase their business through broadband, IT and web development."

Two different programmes have been set up to accommodate the varying levels of knowledge and expertise, with a course aimed at businesses that do not have but plan to develop a website and another for firms that want to improve their existing online sales.

Professionals from Connecting Somerset will chair the workshops and cover issues such as broadband, e-business and e-maintenance.

© Adfero Ltd

30 Apr 2007 14:39:53 (Source: Adfero)