Kemi Badenoch, MP for the Saffron Walden constituency, organised a day of free digital skills, workshops and mentoring training delivered by the Google Digital Garage team to over 29 local businesses at Ugley Village Hall.
Launched in 2015, Google’s Digital Garage programme has trained thousands of people in cities, towns, and villages across the UK.
During the training sessions Google’s ‘Digital Coaches’ show businesses how to grow online - from building a website, to creating a social media strategy.
Sessions ran all day, from 45 minute in depth training to 1:1 mentoring power sessions. After addressing the attendees Mrs Badenoch sat in on a mentoring session with local business owner Mrs Budzinka based in Stansted, who is growing her property management business internationally.
Other businesses that attended included, Parklands from Quendon Hall, Olive and Olive Interiors, Accuro Care Services, and the team at Mind in West Essex.
Commenting, Mrs Badenoch said:
“All across the UK, businesses are adjusting as they operate in a ‘new normal’ post-pandemic, with many focusing on improving their online presence. I am keen to ensure local businesses here in our constituency have access to support so they can too.
“It was great to meet business owners to learn more about the ideas they have to expand their projects as well as hearing about the difficulties that many of them face when starting new businesses online.
“Alongside my annual Small Business Saturday event, Google’s Digital Garage events have proven to be a great way to help small local businesses develop their digital skills.”
Shirley Hoy, Associate Director at Insight Associates in Stansted Mountfitchet said:
“Thanks to the Google team for a thoroughly enjoyable and informative Google Garage event. It's great to see local businesses supported by Uttlesford District Council in conjunction with Kemi Badenoch MP.
“Lots of really useful general marketing content on strategy, goals, channels, brands, SMART goals, and budgets. Plus, in-depth focus on digital and social media, content, strategy, social platforms, Google analytics terminology and of course the fabulous Google Skills To Go content that is available to all. I definitely walked away with a few action points!
“Insight Associates offer an outsourced finance department to growing businesses. We give business leaders all the financial information they need to make good decisions. This Google Digital event gives marketers a great Insight to the information they need to reach their audiences and generate some great in-bound marketing.”
