A NEW learning centre for people wanting to set up their own business has been opened in Times Territory.

The Hertfordshire Enterprise Academy (HEA) was officially unveiled on Tuesday by Hertfordshire County Council leader Robert Gordon, at BioPark in Broadwater Road, WGC.

Funded by Exemplas – part of the University of Hertfordshire group of companies – Hertfordshire County Council and the East of England Development Agency, the HEA aims to equip people from Hertfordshire with the skills and confidence to set up their own company, by providing business support and personal development.

Cllr Gordon, said: “Starting up a business presents a challenge for anyone, but for some there are even more barriers. Cultural, social, economic and financial factors can all play a part in preventing some individuals from achieving their potential. Hertfordshire is a county of opportunity and we want all our residents to benefit.

“The HEA has been set up to broaden participation among Hertfordshire’s residents, and provide opportunity for a great many people.”

Dr Neville Reyner CBE, chairman of Exemplas, said: “Providing new businesses with accommodation and premises that are flexible and fully inclusive is only one part of the story.

“To encourage new sustainable businesses, we are also providing intensive business support, from start-up services to full business start-up through Business Link and other local enterprise agencies and social enterprises.”

“We can help these budding entrepreneurs with a range of personal skills, employment development services, mentoring and networking opportunities.

Where appropriate, we can also help to provide access to pastoral care services, such as money advice, housing support, healthcare advice and welfare.

“This new academy aims to help people to make life changing choices about their future, so that they can overcome any barriers they face and add value to their local community.”