Network for local business women expands to eleven locations in just two years

A networking organisation for entrepreneurial mums is building on two very successful years - with new groups in Lewes and Crawley and a search for managers to run them.

The Mumpreneurs Networking Club was set up in Brighton and Worthing in 2010 by two Sussex entrepreneurs, Nicky Chisholm and Sara Guiel.  The group helps mothers to build their businesses by getting advice and leads from other mums  – women who understand the challenges of juggling the school run with self-employment.  

Since its launch in spring 2010, The MNC has expanded from three to eleven locations in the South East:  Lewes and Crawley are the latest additions to a list that includes Brighton, Burgess Hill, Worthing, Chichester and Shoreham.   The core meetings are held during school hours in term time and the Club’s members, which range from start-ups to established firms, include social media experts, chocolatiers, graphic designers. a winery, a joinery and a plumbing business.  Since The MNC began, it’s had 3,500 visits to its meetings.

Co-founder,Sara Guiel says:  ‘People thought we were mad to set up a company when times are so tough, but we’re proving that businesses thrive on this sort of informal yet dynamic networking.  A chat over a cup of coffee can lead new clients, lasting business relationships and invaluable advice. Our latest pilot groups, Lewes and Crawley, are so successful that we are now looking for managers to run them.’

Claire Bradford, Manager of the Worthing MNC says:  ‘As a manager, it's my absolute pleasure to run friendly meetings, help members make beneficial connections and, in doing so, have a great platform for my own business. Promoting and supporting others promotes me at the same time - it's a win-win situation!'

The next Lewes meeting is 10am – 11.30am on Tuesday 13th March at The Cock Inn, Uckfield Road, Ringmer, BN8 5RX.

The next Crawley meeting is 10.30am – 12.00pm  on Wednesday 14th March at Crawley Town Football Club, Broadfield Stadium, Winfield Way, Crawley, RH 11 9RX.  

The next Worthing meeting is 9.45am – 11.15am on Friday 9th March at the Beechwood Hall Hotel, Wykeham Road, Worthing, BN11 4JD.

Details of other meetings can be found at: http://www.agoodgossip.co.uk/articles/dates

If you would like more information about any of The MNC groups or are interested in becoming a manager for Lewes or Crawley, please contact:
Nicky Chisholm or Sara Guiel at info@agoodgossip.co.uk or on 01273 684 171.

Copy: Miranda Birch, Freelance Journalist, Media Trainer and PR Consultant

If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk