Smith & Williamson hosted Born Global, an event that aimed to build on the Prime Minister's announcement last week of a series of new measures to help Britain's small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) grow and fuel an economic revival. Key to the message and discussion on the day were the opportunities and benefits of exporting to new markets, focussing on the need for the UK to trade its way to growth and jobs.

With securing a return to long-term economic growth being the Government's highest priority, the event aimed to be practical, informative and inspirational. The first session included Julie Meyer, an American by birth but a European at heart who, as the CEO of Ariadne Capital has advised leading startups, SMEs and corporates from around the world. Julie shared a Q&A discussion with Caoimhe Buckley, Managing Director of Marketing and Communications at UKTI around the practical advice and support available for SMEs exploring opportunities abroad. Part of their discussion covered the launch of the new 'Open to Export' web resource providing small businesses with professional export advice. UKTI will work with Yell to develop this online service which will allow UK firms to swap information and experiences directly.

Shared experiences as well as practical advice and a strong motivational element was the central message from successful serial entrepreneurs and best selling authors Lara Morgan and Neal Gandhi. Their track record of building businesses globally, often against the odds provided a fascinating insight into the determination, persistence and drive that is needed to be successful in what are increasingly competitive as well as potentially lucrative markets.

Caroline Rowland of New Moon, the innovative firm behind the film campaigns of London 2012 and the Qatar 2022 Fifa World Cup and Paul Lindley the award-winning Founder of Ella's Kitchen joined in the discussion, engaging the audience with their strategies for expanding globally in 2012 as they seek out new market opportunities. Both are high growth SMEs, with the potential to be Britain's international success stories of the future.

With cash king, successful expansion abroad requires collaboration, partnerships and support. Rajesh Sharma of Smith & Williamson shared his advice on effective tax and financial planning in overseas markets, an issue which resonated with an audience aware of the added challenges of building a business during a recession and the need to keep costs and overheads down.

With the strong message of 'get out and do it' sounding clearly from entrepreneurs who have succeeded, the SMEs in attendance seemed to concur that economic downturns create opportunities and that exporting abroad not only increases your businesses efficiency but makes good business sense.

 

For further information please visit the UK Trade and Investment website