Minister for Enterprise, Laurence Skelly MHK, joined more than 100 guests from across the island’s business community at the official launch of Business Connex.

Business Connex is a joint initiative between Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce and the Department for Enterprise.

It is a concierge service designed to support local businesses and entrepreneurs.

It is also there to help businesses, entrepreneurs and individuals who have decided to relocate here.

The service is working closely with the business community and the department as a point of contact with its business development managers concerning new business enquiring about relocation to the Isle of Man.

Mr Skelly officially welcomed the appointment of Jessica Kitchin as manager of Business Connex.

He then explained how the service supported his department’s strategy to facilitate the introduction and relocation of new business to the island which is essential for ongoing economic growth.

He also spoke about the success of Barclays Eagle Lab in Victoria Street, Douglas, which is also Chamber’s headquarters and the venue for the Business Connex launch event.

Jessica Kitchin spoke about Business Connex’s mission and vision and invited questions from guests.

Rebecca George, Chamber’s chief executive, thanked guests for supporting the launch, and went on to give the latest news about Knowledge Connex which is another Chamber initiative in development.

The plan is for Knowledge Connex to be a mentoring initiative which will allow start-ups to connect with individuals from established, successful businesses and tap into their knowledge and expertise.

There may also be a Knowledge Connex app.

Chamber director, board member of Business Isle of Man, and executive coach, Carol Glover, concluded the official proceedings by speaking about the exciting opportunities which the Isle of Man offers start-ups, and the possibility that the island could become a world leading centre of excellence for entrepreneurs.

lTo find out more about Business Connex contact Jessica Kitchin by emailing [email protected] or phoning 674941.

Left to right are Rebecca George, chief executive, Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce; Minister for Enterprise, Laurence Skelly MHK; Jessica Kitchin, manager, Business Connex; and Carol Glover, Chamber director, board member of Business Isle of Man, and executive coach

Left to right are Jaime Amoedo, country head, HSBC; Miles Benham, managing director, MannBenham Advocates; and Brian Donegan, digital development manager, Isle of Man Digital Agency

More than 100 guests from across the island’s business community attended the Business Connex launch at Barclays Eagle Lab (which is where Isle of Man Chamber of Commerce has its headquarters)