Julie Cleaver, Managing Director of Open 4 Business Dorset said: “Open4Business is set to expand and grow its offer in 2012, but will continue as a Community Interest Company supported by local businesses, business organisations such as the Chamber and local authorities."
"Traditionally Open 4 Business has been a 2 week business festival held in October each year, but in 2012 Open 4 Business will offer an annual programme of events, conferences and exhibitions throughout the year with a series of Awards in October/November."
"Originally Open 4 Business was created just for businesses in Weymouth & Portland following the departure of the Royal Navy. In 2007 the geographical area was widened to include businesses in West Dorset, Purbeck and Weymouth & Portland, however in 2012, Open 4 Business will be open to ANY business in the Dorset and the organisation will be known as Open 4 Business Dorset CIC”.
The 2011 South & West Dorset Open4Business festival programme closed with a “Winning Business Seminar” which took place on Thursday 20th October at the Ocean Room, Weymouth Pavilion.
During the 18 day festival over 750 businesses engaged with Open 4 Business through events and awards, a 15% increase on 2010. Award entries were up 10% and 67% of Award entries came from businesses who entered for the first time.
For more information please visit www.o4business.co.uk
