Silicon Brighton launches initiative to aid vital independent businesses
In a bid to help sustain Brighton’s treasured independent shops and businesses, experts from across the digital industry have come together to volunteer their time and expertise to those impacted by the pandemic.
The new initiative, called Our Brighton, matches local businesses with tech advisors who can offer free and impartial guidance on how to utilise technology and adapt to a now-predominately digital world.
Recognising that the city’s culture and economy is in jeopardy if its independent shops are lost, collaborative knowledge sharing and networking platform, Silicon Brighton developed the campaign. Co-Founder Steve Rackley added:
“Independents help celebrate our individuality and are a vital part of Brighton’s makeup. They give a sense of liberalism – a place where anyone and everyone can feel welcome and belong – removing the bland high street chains so common in other cities. Many stores have been handed down through generations, supported their families, and are some of the most affected by lockdown. After we’ve survived this pandemic, we want the region to thrive, which means working together now to protect our independent businesses.”
So far volunteers include web developers, video producers, tech consultants, financial advisors, animators and marketing specialists, offering a range of support from moving products and services online, increasing digital marketing presence, pivoting processes for remote working, improving existing websites, content creation, and more.
On joining the campaign as a volunteer, Co-Creator of inclusion consultancy Watch This Sp_ce, Mo Kanjilal said:
“We are delighted to be involved in this brilliant initiative. So many businesses need help to develop digital services. This type of community action is what Brighton is all about.”
Alex Preece, COO & Co-founder of global SaaS platform Tillo, added:
“It’s great to see initiatives like this happening locally to help our city’s independent shops adapt to – and grow – in a virtual world. We’re thrilled to be supporting such a project.”
More information and how to get involved, either as a volunteer or business in need of assistance, can be found at www.ourbrighton.com