Doug Richard to breathe fire into next generation of Welsh entrepreneurs

Founding Dragons’ Den panellist and founder of School for Startups, Doug Richard, has been drafted in by the Welsh Government to deliver free intensive web training courses that aim to help Welsh entrepreneurs turn their ideas into fast-growth successful online businesses.

The initiative will see Doug Richard deliver practical training courses in how to reach a global audience through the web, in three locations: Cardiff, Swansea and St. Asaph.

The one day bootcamps will help over 450 businesses in Wales to grow and thrive, and aim to contribute towards building a brighter economic future for the country.

Doug Richard says: “In this economic climate it has never been more important for Wales to consider how it can generate wealth and employment opportunities.

“Everyone has the potential to start their own business, and small and young businesses are being championed the world over as key to economic recovery. By taking School for Startups to Wales I am looking forward to encouraging and training the country’s next generation of job and wealth creators.”

Minister for Business, Enterprise, Technology and Science Edwina Hart says: “The internet has become a vital tool in business growth and small businesses need to know how to make the most of the opportunities available to them. The expertise that Doug Richard will be able to share with Welsh businesses will be invaluable to them.

“I want to see small businesses grow and thrive here in Wales. Through these free practical events, the small business community can see how the wider use of new technologies, faster broadband and exploiting the internet can yield real benefits, aid business growth and help renew the Welsh economy.”

The programme will train delegates to grow their business fast online. It will teach the strategies, tools and techniques required to find customers via the internet and manage a business more effectively using web-based tools and solutions.