Marcus Jones, Nuneaton’s MP, has today welcomed the news that the Government has achieved its target of 15,000 business mentors. This includes 210 for Coventry and Warwickshire.

The volunteer mentors have been recruited and trained as part of the £1.9 million government-funded Get Mentoring project. This has been delivered by the Small Firms Enterprise Development Initiative.

Commenting, Marcus said: “This is great news for small businesses, entrepreneurs and everyone thinking about setting up on their own here in Nuneaton. Mentors offer businesses and entrepreneurs the support they can need to take the next step – helping them to start up, grow and create jobs.

“As someone who has set up a number of small businesses, I know how difficult and challenging it can be, so I particularly welcome this scheme to help new businesses to become established and to overcome the difficult initial hurdles that can often crop up.”

Michael Fallon, Business Minister, commented: “Small businesses are vital to our economy and we are determined to help them get on and succeed. We have invested in mentoring because we know that good mentors can provide the practical advice and support that an entrepreneur needs to take their business idea to the next level. They have been there and done it and can pass that experience on. I want to encourage people to come forward and take advantage of the mentoring network.”