Be the Business, a not-for-profit movement helping every firm in the country improve their performance, is partnering with Facebook to host an event in the East Midlands providing free advice, training and inspiration to micro and small businesses in the wake of Covid-19.

Taking place on 10th November, the event will feature leading firms from the region, including micro-brewery, Docks Beers. Attendees will also receive training from Be the Business and Facebook on using Instagram for business, business finances and innovating your business model.

Crucially, the event aims to help businesses boost their digital skills, provide access to essential resources and get ongoing support to recover and grow. This comes as new data reveals 22% of East Midlands businesses have either adopted new technology since March or intend to do so in the coming months.

The impact of the Coronavirus is being felt by businesses around the world. However, Be the Business has uncovered some optimism on the horizon, showing that small firms have adopted technology at unprecedented rates to meet COVID-19 related business challenges, including operating virtual businesses and powering remote workforces.

Recent Facebook research showed the pivotal role digital channels are playing in the recovery of small businesses, with 55% of UK small businesses surveyed now making more than a quarter of their sales online.

This event is an integral part of a year-long partnership between Be the Business and Facebook which also includes a messenger bot that guides businesses to bespoke advice and a new national peer group on Facebook where business owners can exchange ideas and advice.

Sir Charlie Mayfield, chairman, Be the Business, said: ‘It’s a tragedy that it’s taken a global pandemic to do it, but we are seeing a huge drive for efficiency, interest in technology and innovation from UK businesses. Our event in the East Midlands will capitalise on that ambition, providing guidance and resources to the firms who need it most. Small businesses will be at the heart of the UK’s economic recovery, and Be the Business, alongside our partner Facebook, is committed to helping them succeed.”

Steve Hatch, VP for Northern Europe at Facebook, said: “We’re committed to doing everything we can to help small businesses in these challenging times. Our tools can help smaller companies trade online and effectively reach new customers around the world so they can create and sustain jobs in the East Midlands. We’re delighted to be partnering with Be the Business to offer a programme of tailored advice and training that will help small businesses get the most value from our platforms.”

For more information and to register to attend the events visit https://www.facebook.com/business/boost/uk-boost-online