Portsmouth businesses looking for guidance, fresh ideas or greater confidence can access free mentoring through the Portsmouth Business Support Service delivered by Shaping Portsmouth in partnership with Portsmouth City Council.

At a special event for National Mentoring Day on 27 October, the Portsmouth Business Support Service is looking for more business leaders and industry specialists to become mentors while highlighting the difference mentoring can make to local businesses.

Mentoring gives business owners access to experienced professionals who can share their knowledge, provide practical advice and act as a sounding board for important decisions. For James Donougher, founder of Portsmouth Foodguide, mentoring provided support at a crucial stage in his business journey.

James Donougher, Founder of Portsmouth Foodguide said: “Being a start-up business, I knew nothing about business. That’s where Shaping Portsmouth and the mentoring team really came into play.  My mentor Tim was brilliant. He was very kind, very supportive and very knowledgeable. Above everything, he gave me confidence in knowing that I had a business plan that works. I would strongly recommend it, 100%.”

Portsmouth startup business PortsMed benefited from mentoring alongside other opportunities offered through the Portsmouth Business Support Service.

Kerry Wells, Managing Director of PortsMed, said: “Portsmouth Business Support Service has been an invaluable part of PortsMed’s journey. The free courses, mentoring sessions and networking opportunities have provided us with practical knowledge, expert guidance and valuable connections.

“The support has helped us build confidence, strengthen our business and connect with the wider Portsmouth business community. We’re extremely grateful for the accessible, high-quality support available to local businesses like PortsMed.”

The programme also gives business leaders and specialists an opportunity to give something back and support Portsmouth’s next generation of entrepreneurs.

Dave Humphries, CEO of Shaping Portsmouth, said: “Mentoring is a great way to give back to others. In my own career and business journeys, I’ve had the support of many other people, and none of those wanted anything back from me. So, this is like paying it forward and helping the next person through the system.”

Cllr Steve Pitt, Leader of Portsmouth City Council, said: “Running a business can be exciting, but it can also feel challenging when you are making important decisions or planning your next step. Having an experienced mentor to talk to can provide a fresh perspective, build confidence and help turn ideas into action.

“Portsmouth has a strong and supportive business community, with a wealth of knowledge and experience. Through the Portsmouth Business Support Service, we are bringing people together so that local businesses can learn from one another, overcome challenges and fulfil their potential.”

The Portsmouth Business Support Service provides free support for businesses at every stage of their journey, including mentoring, workshops, networking opportunities and specialist advice.

For more information about becoming a mentor contact the Shaping Portsmouth team at info@shapingportsmouth.co.uk or visit shapingportsmouth.co.uk/business_programme/business-support-service/