Vince Cable wants to see as many business people as possible sign up to mentor new and growing businesses. To make it easier for people to get the mentoring help they need, the Business Secretary outlined the Government's plans for a new single network of mentoring providers. This network of experts will help start-ups, growing companies and businesses seeking financial mentoring.

For the first time, business mentoring networks are joining forces to improve access to mentoring provision for both mentors and those looking for mentoring support. More mentors will be encouraged to commit to the network over the coming months.

Business Secretary Vince Cable said:

"The best people to advise new entrepreneurs and existing businesses are those who have already started and run successful companies. Mentoring is a very effective way of promoting start-ups, higher productivity and growth amongst established businesses, so I am delighted to announce this new network.

"I also want to encourage more businesses to sign up and offer their support and guidance. We need as many successful mentors as possible to guide the next generation of entrepreneurs and businesses."

Business and Enterprise Minister Mark Prisk said:

"In the current economic climate, it has never been more important to promote an enterprise culture in the UK, and mentors play a crucial role in advising, supporting and encouraging entrepreneurs and small businesses. This new mentoring network will be invaluable for businesses all over the country."

From summer 2011, with the support of the British Bankers' Association and UK mentoring providers, there will be a single online gateway to mentoring provision for mentors and for those seeking mentoring.