Local businesses in Harrow can now apply for the second Harrow Digital Support Bootcamp, a free programme designed to enhance digital and e-commerce skills. The course, which starts on 12 October, is delivered in partnership with Enterprise Nation and is open to all Harrow businesses, including sole traders, start-ups, and voluntary sector enterprises.
The programme offers training in e-commerce and social media, covering areas such as website development, search engine optimisation (SEO), and selling on platforms like Amazon and Etsy. The bootcamp includes both online and in-person workshops, with in-person sessions taking place at Harrow College – Harrow on the Hill.
Soni, a fashion blogger and owner of hosiery brand Soni Panda x, participated in the first bootcamp and shared her experience: “The digital bootcamp was extremely helpful because it allowed me to be more strategic in cultivating and growing my audience. I’ve learnt many new skills, from sharpening Search Engine Optimisation, to creating engaging content and strengthening my community.”
According to feedback from participants, more than half of those who attended the first bootcamp saw improvements in their digital marketing and sales strategies.
Cllr Norman Stevenson, Portfolio Holder for Business, Employment and Property, said: “Harrow is home to one of the highest numbers of small businesses in London – it’s brilliant to hear the difference we’re making to local businesses, helping them grow. If you missed the first Digital Skills bootcamp, now is your chance to secure your place for the second round. There is always something new to learn in the digital space and this programme offers you the tools and techniques to help you grow your online presence.”
The programme is funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and is completely free for businesses in the borough.
Emma Jones, CBE, founder and CEO of Enterprise Nation, also praised the initiative: “The first bootcamp was an incredible success and we’re really looking forward to helping more Harrow-based independent businesses to use digital skills to grow their offering. No matter where you are on your business journey, we at Enterprise Nation are passionate about supporting start-up and small business support every day.
“We really admire the ambition of The London Borough of Harrow which has the same dedication to deliver business support programmes like these, that will boost the borough’s economy and support self-starters.”
For more information on how to apply, visit the Harrow business support page.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
For news tips, press releases or enquiries, contact Chris at info@harrowonline.org.
