BUDDING entrepreneurs across Test Valley can benefit from free business training through a week-long course in December.

Test Valley Borough Council (TVBC) is backing the free event next month, run by The Pop Up Business School, to help people who are considering starting a new business.

The course, running from December 7 to 11, will offer advice and guidance on how to run an organisation, and how to adapt and increase resilience amid challenging times.

Economic development and tourism portfolio holder at TVBC, Cllr David Drew, said: “We’re determined, as an authority, to support residents who have entrepreneurial ambitions, and this is an excellent opportunity to do just that.

“Through this course local residents can develop their business skills and knowledge alongside other like-minded people.

"I am delighted that we are working with our neighbouring authorities to bring such an innovative way to start and maintain a business, and I look forward to meeting the successful business people it brings together."

The local authority is teaming up with other councils, including the New Forest, Eastleigh, East Hampshire and Havant, to ensure learning and networking opportunities are available for anyone who is looking to kickstart a business in the middle of a pandemic.

This collaboration means the course can be delivered free of charge to all attendees.

The course aims to cover topics such as sales and marketing - including advice on how to set up a website for free - as well as the professional considerations all businesses have to take around tax and legal issues.

For more information, and to book your place, visit www.popupbusinessschool.co.uk/Hampshire.