Skills for Business Growth: Developing You and Your Workforce

Could developing the right skills help your business grow, adapt and plan for the future?

Whether you're running a business on your own or managing a larger team, having the right skills can make a real difference to productivity, performance and future growth.

Join Business Growth Dorset and local business owners in Bridport for coffee, pastries and conversation. It's a chance to make new connections and explore the training and development opportunities available to Dorset businesses. 

Hear from

Richard Walker - Business Engagement Officer for Dorset, Skills & Learning Adult Community Education
Richard will discuss the benefits of developing a skilled workforce and the flexible, affordable learning and training opportunities available to help businesses develop the skills they need.

Yasmin Brown - Marketing and Employer Engagement Coordinator, Dorset Careers Hub
Yasmin will explore how businesses can connect with young people, develop local talent and play a part in building Dorset's future workforce.

You’ll leave with

• A better understanding of how skills development can support business growth
• Ideas for developing the skills and capabilities of you and your workforce
• An overview of learning and training opportunities available to Dorset businesses
• Insight into how your business can connect with and help develop Dorset's future talent
• New connections with other Dorset businesses

There will also be time to ask questions, meet other local businesses and talk to the Business Growth Dorset team over light refreshments.

Wednesday 4 November 2026
9:00am to 11:00am
The Bull Hotel, 34 East Street, Bridport, DT6 3LF

What to expect

09:00 - 09:30 Light refreshments and networking
09:30 - 09:45 Welcome and Business Growth Dorset update
09:45 - 10:30 Guest speakers and presentations
10:30 - 11:00 Networking and close

Getting there

East Street car park on Kings Square is around 100 metres from the hotel. South Street, Wykes Court and Rope Walks car parks are also only a short walk away.

Bridport is served by local and regional bus services, including connections from Dorchester and Axminster. Bridport Bus Station and the Arts Centre bus stop are both a short walk from the hotel.

Accessibility

The Hayloft function room is at the rear of the hotel and is only accessed by a few steps. An accessible toilet is available and Blue Badge parking may be available by prior arrangement.

If you have any accessibility requirements or would like to discuss arrangements before booking, please contact us.

This event is part of the fully funded Business Growth Dorset Breakfast Series, supporting Dorset businesses with expert insights, practical guidance and valuable networking opportunities.

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