The Supporting Entrepreneurship Inquiry held its first evidence session in the National Assembly for Wales on 6th December, taking evidence directly from a range of Welsh Entrepreneurs and business organisations exploring how Government policy can support entrepreneurship.
The Inquiry is collecting evidence on the contributions that different types of entrepreneur make to the Welsh economy and looks to how best to support these entrepreneurs in the long-term.
Janet Finch Saunders, Chair of the Cross-Party Group said: “The first evidence session of the Inquiry has focused on the challenges faced everyday by business owners and entrepreneurs trading on local high streets. These businesses are the backbone of the Welsh economy and it’s important policymakersunderstand the challenges they face and what they can do to support them.”
The Entrepreneurs Panel heard from; Helen Walbey, Recycle Scooters; Gareth Jones, Town Square Spaces; and Robert Cooper, Little Man Coffee. The Panel highlighted the need to promote local businesses by strengthening support for high streets through the business rates system, delivering better broadband to increase productivity and enhancing the support provided by Business Wales.
Business organisations, including FSB Wales and the South Wales Chambers of Commerce, gave evidence to the Inquiry focusing on how Welsh Government policy can support entrepreneurship. Business groups outlined that reform was needed to the apprenticeships system and business rates system. The importance of the small business rate relief system and a robust appeals system were also highlighted.
