Sales Made Easy is an interactive 45-minute workshop designed specifically for micro-business owners who want to attract more customers with confidence.

• You will learn how to:
• Understand what your customer truly needs
• Ask the right questions that open up real opportunities
• Listen effectively and position your offer with confidence
• Explain value—not just features
• Handle objections in a calm and professional way
• Close a sale without feeling pushy
• Wrap up conversations clearly, so customers say yes

A workshop to help those starting in hospitality understand the legalities and minimise risks.

Do you like to dabble in the kitchen? Maybe you have some family recipes that you would like to share with the public? Are you the next Michel Roux?

Starting your own food and drink business can be daunting due to the challenges that can arise.

If you've ever wanted to start a business, our brand-new workshop will cover everything you need to know to turn your passion into your own business.

The workshop is being delivered by industry experts with a track record in results to help you understand the legal requirements you have to consider, along with licensing, financial planning and marketing.

Topics covered:

• Compliance
• Food Safety Management – what you will need to put in place
• Registering with the local authority
• Health and Safety - What you will need to put in place
• Licensing what you will need and your responsibilities
• Planning & Statutory Inspections
• Financial Planning and responsibilities
• Operating costs to consider
• Insurances
• Marketing
• Business Development, branding and social media

Places in this workshop are limited to allow a more personalised approach, so book now to avoid missing out.

Hosted by GM Business Growth Hub’s EnterprisingYou team, in partnership with Tameside Council, this event brings together local entrepreneurs, support organisations and industry specialists for a day of ideas, learning and collaboration. The festival will showcase the very best of Tameside businesses through guest speakers, practical workshops and a range of exhibitors.

Choose from three dedicated workshops, explore business support available across Tameside, and have the chance to promote your business in our ‘Pitch Your Business’ session - a great opportunity to share your story with fellow attendees.

What to Expect:

Guest Speakers

Tameside Council Representative

Rachel Mellish – Rachs Wellness Loft
Rachel is a certified Reiki Master and sound healing practitioner with a background in social work. Since launching Rachs Wellness Loft in 2022, she has delivered restorative sound baths and holistic wellbeing sessions across schools, workplaces, community groups and more.

Workshops

Starting Your Business the Right Way
A comprehensive overview of everything you need to consider when launching a new venture -from planning and legalities to marketing and financial awareness.

Social Media for a Growing Company
A jargon-free session designed to help growing businesses use social media more strategically. Learn how to understand your audience, simplify your content approach and create sustainable growth.

From Window Shopper to Loyal Customer
Discover how to turn every walk-in or viewer into a loyal advocate by refining your customer journey from first impression to lasting connection.

Pitch Your Business
Delegates will also have the chance to be selected to ‘Pitch Your Business’ to fellow attendees - a fantastic opportunity to share your story, build visibility and gain valuable feedback.

Why Attend?

By joining the festival, you will:

• Gain practical skills from industry specialists
• Learn more about the business support available for Tameside businesses
• Network with like-minded entrepreneurs and local leaders
• Leave inspired, informed and ready to take your business to the next level

If you're in Tameside and want to start or grow a business, this is the event for you. Join fellow entrepreneurs and take the next step in your business journey

Funding a new business can feel overwhelming, especially when it’s unclear what lenders and grant providers are looking for. This in person interactive, jargon-free workshop will demystify the process and give you the insider knowledge you need to succeed.

You’ll discover what funders really look for, how they evaluate applications, and the practical steps needed to align your proposal with their expectations. By the end of the session, you’ll be equipped to fine-tune your application and significantly boost your chances of securing the finance you need to launch.

What you’ll gain:

• A clear, realistic overview of your individual funding requirements.
• Insight into viable finance routes in the UK, with a focus on Greater Manchester.
• A tailored draft funding action plan for your business and personal circumstances.
• The confidence to start engaging with funders effectively.

Leave ready to take action and unlock the funding that will power your start-up journey.

Kickstart your retail dream — from market stalls to online shops — and gain the tools and confidence to launch and grow your business.

Thinking of launching a market stall, pop-up shop, or online e-commerce business, but not sure where to begin?

This interactive three-hour workshop is designed for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to explore retail business opportunities and take their first steps with confidence, including the opportunity to test trade your idea in a real market setting.

Whether you're still shaping your idea or ready to test it in the real world, this session will equip you with the tools, insights, and practical know-how to get started. From understanding today's retail landscape to choosing the right location and building a loyal customer base, you'll leave with a clearer plan and the confidence to move forward.

This workshop covers all types of retail — from traditional brick-and-mortar shops to online e-commerce, or even a mix of both.

Led by industry experts and packed with hands-on exercises, this workshop is your first step towards turning your idea into reality.

Plus, attendees will have an exclusive opportunity to test trade at The Exchange Market in Rochdale for six weeks, completely free of charge.

The market runs three times a week (Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday), with six stalls available for test traders. Each stall is 8 feet long by 3 feet wide, and participants will need to commit to running their stall for the full six-week period. It’s a fantastic chance to gain real-world experience, build confidence, and connect with customers in a supportive environment.