Chamber helping entrepreneurs and start-ups with free membership

Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce is encouraging entrepreneurs and start-ups by offering them free membership for a year.

The scheme is designed to offer support for new enterprises in those crucial early stages of development. It is open to any Isle of Man business with no more than three employees that has been in business for under three years. If those criteria are met, the business receives one year’s free Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce membership, and a chance to feature in a promotional video in a scheme supported by the Department for Enterprise.

Rebecca George, Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce CEO, said: “It is widely recognised in Government and the private sector that encouraging entrepreneurs and start-ups is essential, and at Chamber we are keen to play our part by making it easier for new businesses to have access to the Island’s biggest business network, and the wealth of expertise provided by our members. Chamber is not just about major corporations, the majority of our members are SMEs, and we recognise the importance of doing everything we can to support new businesses. So far we have 23 new business start-ups who have taken up the offer of free membership.”

Those 23 businesses include Virtually There (www.virtuallythere.im) and Craft Applied (www.craftapplied.com).

June Whiteman, from Virtually There, said: “As a small business owner, we want to be taken seriously and be seen as offering a professional service. Being a member of the Chamber adds gravitas and a sense of being part of something bigger.”

Darren Barklie, from Craft Applied, commented: “We believe in bringing our international experience to the local marketplace and would consider the Chamber of Commerce a key ally in facilitating introductions and fostering relationships with the Manx business community.”

The free membership scheme is just one example of Chamber’s support for entrepreneurs and start-ups. Another is Business Connex which is the joint initiative launched earlier this year by Chamber and the Department for Enterprise. Business Connex supports local businesses and entrepreneurs on the Island, and helps businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals who have decided to relocate here.

If your business is interested in joining Chamber, or for more information about the free membership scheme, please email rebecca.george@iomchamber.org.im