News / Business
New network to boost BAME business development in Bristol
Racism – in the form of negative stereotyping and biases – has been identified as the most significant barrier facing black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) business development in Bristol.
Research conducted by Black South West Network (BSWN) also found a lack of information and support in accessing finance and dealing with bureaucracy are factors that hold back aspiring entrepreneurs and hindering growth.
Meanwhile, innovation and resilience were identified as key strengths of BAME businesses and social enterprises during the six-month project to map the city-wide community in order to understand the challenges it faces.
In the wake of the study, BSWN – an organisation that promotes race equality across the region – is launching a new Bristol Urban, Enterprise and Innovation Network that aims to aid the development of effective networking, collaboration and innovation among BAME entrepreneurs.
“We have the data, now the key thing is how we move forward,” BSWN director Sado Jirde (main photo) told Bristol24/7.
“There is so much information available in the city, but it’s making it accessible to people. We intend to bring entrepreneurs together and invite speakers, with networking events as well as an online forum.”
The research found that the supporting infrastructure already in place to help entrepreneurs navigate the challenges of business development was deemed inefficient and, in some cases, discriminatory – whether because of conscious of unconscious biases.
One of the study participants said: “Social networks definitely are an issue in terms of success and it’s much harder to access those opportunities that exist in white middle-class networks if you are black.”
Among the largest and most promising business sectors within the BAME community are in the food and creative industries, with areas for future growth identified in the tech and construction sectors.
Both Bristol City Council and the West of England Combined Authority (WECA) have supported the drive to enhance opportunities for BAME businesses and tackle existing barriers.
Head of WECA metro mayor Tim Bowles acknowledged the important role of BAME businesses and entrepreneurs in the region’s economic growth, while saying he recognises the barriers faced.
Marvin Rees says developing networking opportunities is key
Speaking about the new network launch, mayor Marvin Rees, said: “Having the opportunities and spaces in which to come together to discuss business issues, develop collaborations, hear of new opportunities, and exchange ideas are the life-blood of a thriving business community.
“Developing networking opportunities for BAME business leaders in Bristol is an essential step forward in our drive to create a vibrant and inclusive economy, and a city in which nobody is left behind.”
Speaking about the need for greater diversity in businesses across the city, Jirde said better representation – of BAME, women and people from different socio-economic backgrounds – is vital in enhancing the decision-making process.
But she said these groups often have to overcome negative stereotyping, as well as recruitment processes that are often informal and not transparent.
“The number of initiatives in Bristol is positive,” she adds. “I think it’s good we are having these conversations and talking about inclusion, but we have to actually act on it.
“I think it should be something that we all embrace.”
The launch of Bristol Urban Enterprise and Innovation Network will be be held on Friday, November 9 from 6pm – 8pm at City Hall.
Speakers will include Craig Cheney, the deputy mayor with responsibility for finance, Stephen Bediako, of Social Innovation Partnership Ltd, and Marti Burgess, head of SME at Gregg Latchams and Local Enterprise Partnership board member.
Read more: Bristol’s BME Powerlist 2018 revealed
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