Connect Derby joins Derby City Council workspaces: Friar Gate Studios, Kings Chambers on Queen Street, the new Sadler Bridge ... Studios on Bold Lane, the Shot Tower and the former Magistrate’s Court on Full Street, together under one banner in a £14.2m project to create jobs for local people. The scheme provides micro businesses, entrepreneurs and SME’s with the high specification working environment, IT infrastructure and business support they need to improve business survival rates and act as a catalyst for expansion and growth. It is also hoped that the project will create further jobs by increasing inward investment to the city. £7.3 million of the capital funding for the scheme has been secured through external grants from the European Regional Development Fund, with the remainder coming from The Derby City Council Regeneration Fund. Each centre will have a unique offering for anyone considering self-employment or starting a new business or an existing business already operating inside or outside the city. Businesses based in any of the Connect buildings will receive a unique package of targeted help and support, especially those from disadvantaged communities who may find self-employment daunting. This will include a range of business development, mentoring and coaching opportunities and a programme of events aimed at sharing skills and encouraging collaboration between businesses. Connect Derby offers a range high-quality, flexible workspace in the city centre, ranging from conventional office units to areas with hot-desks, informal workspace for virtual tenancies read more