The Business Exchange Swindon & Wiltshire Edition 36: April/May 2018 | Page 5

BUSINESS NEWS The countdown is on for The Techies 2018, The Business Exchange’s first award scheme supported by the Swindon & Wiltshire LEP. The Techies is designed to celebrate the innovation and entrepreneurship of the IT community in Swindon & Wiltshire, with award categories suiting everything from one-man-bands to big corporations. The Business Exchange has brought together some of the area’s most influential tech entrepreneurs and business growth partners to judge the inaugural Techies 2018. The judges include James Eades, managing director of Systemagic, Jeff Thomas, serial investor, entrepreneur and owner of Hartham Park, Ali Hadavizadeh, program manager for Farm491 (a space for innovators to grow their tech businesses), Mirabelle Mack, business growth officer for Swindon Borough Council and George Gill, SWLEP board member and commercial director of GG Media Resources, a Tech Track 100 business. It costs £5 for each award category and there’s no limit to the number of categories a company can enter. The entry deadline is midnight on April 8, 2018. The award categories are: Awards night @ Hartham Park 1. Most Innovative Business Solution 2. Best User Experience 3. The Cutting IT Award (recognising emerging technology) 4. Using Tech to Transform Business 5. Driven by Data 6. Tech Team of the Year (Sponsored by Swindon and Wiltshire Growth Project) 7. Cloud Innovation of the Year 8. Best Tech Security 9. Social Impact Award 10. Future Tech Superstar 11. Best Tech Support Service 12. Flying the Flag for Swindon & Wiltshire Tech (Sponsored by SWLEP) The awards will culminate in a celebration at Hartham Park, Corsham on Thursday May 10, 2018. Tickets cost £40 and include a drink, bowl food and entertainment. Award winners will receive a unique trophy, certificate and treats for the team ensuring there is a real sense of inclusion. To book your tickets email: [email protected] Follow @TheTechiesUK on Twitter and join the conversation using the hashtag #TheWiltshireTechies Entries are submitted online by visiting: www.the-techies-sw.co.uk Mindful Employer Network celebrates 10 years The Swindon Mindful Employer Network is celebrating 10 years of success in promoting mental health awareness locally. The network which was formed in 2008 now regularly attracts over 150 delegates to its sessions, courses and conferences which are attended by large and small businesses of all sectors situated in and around the town. David Latham who has managed the project from the beginning said it has a lot to do with the enthusiasm of volunteers and partner organisations who feel mental health is such an important area for business. David said: “Most of our activities are strongly supported by local people and businesses. Without top hotels and venues offering to host an event, it would be impossible to have advanced this initiative over the last 10 years – we are grateful for the tremendous help from all our supporters.” Throughout its 10 years of growth, the Swindon Mindful Employer Network has received financial support from Public Health in Swindon. Frances Mayes of Public Health at Swindon Borough Council was one of the ‘architects’ of the local initiative and had responsibility for securing the essential funding to keep the activity thriving. She explained: “A lot of the success is down to the quality of the speakers and the events planning. We have heard some amazing talks from top speakers and experts, many of whom gave of their time freely. ” Richard Frost, who leads Mindful Employer nationally and internationally, added that, in terms of mental health networks for employers, Swindon is an “obvious example” of best practice in the UK. To celebrate its 10 years of service, the group will hold several special events culminating in a conference in October at the Swindon Marriott. LOVE OFFICE SPACE Flexible space with great terms MEETING ROOMS To find out more email: [email protected] VIRTUAL OFFICE TELECOMS BUSINESS SUPPORT As a business owner, it’s your passion and commitment that drives your business. Basepoint Business Centres share this enthusiasm and are committed to helping businesses by offering first-class workspaces alongside services that support you in making your business a success. Offices | Flexi-Space | Virtual Office | Meeting Rooms Unique workspaces for your business Contact us today 01793 602555 [email protected] @basepoint_swnd basepoint.co.uk THE BUSINESS EXCHANGE 2018 5