Enterprising Cumbria, the county’s new delivery body for economic growth, has announced the appointment of Donna Dacre as its new business advisor for Barrow.
Launched last year to continue the work of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, Enterprising Cumbria now leads on business support, skills development and investment across the whole of the county.
Its priorities are to help businesses grow, strengthen the local workforce and secure long-term investment through clean growth and innovation.
Donna, who has run her own business in Barrow town centre for over 12 years, brings a wealth of experience to the role alongside a strong background in supporting new enterprises.
She said, “I’m delighted to be joining the team and helping more businesses in Barrow.
“With over a decade running my own business in the town centre, and a background in supporting new enterprises, I really understand the challenges that local traders can face.
“Barrow has a strong and growing business community, and I’m really looking forward to helping local businesses grow, thrive, and make the most of new opportunities.”
Enterprising Cumbria delivers programmes designed to help businesses across the county grow, innovate and succeed.
Its flagship programme, Cumbria Accelerator, provides one-to-one business advice, access to workshops and resources, and practical support to help businesses.
Paul Foster, head of programmes at Enterprising Cumbria, said, “We’re thrilled to welcome Donna to the team. She has a wealth of local knowledge and experience, as both a business owner and advisor. She’s a fantastic asset for Barrow.
“Our aim is to ensure that businesses in the town have access to the tailored advice and practical support they need to succeed, and Donna will play a central role in delivering that.”
Peter Anstiss, chief executive of Team Barrow, which is a partnership involving central Government, Westmorland and Furness Council and BAE Systems, added: “Along with supporting the safe and secure delivery of the UK’s submarine programme, we are also focused on helping strengthen and diversify Barrow’s economy.
“We want the town to become a great place to invest and do business and we’re excited to work with Donna and Enterprising Cumbria to help realise these ambitions, and ensure Barrow’s business community continues to grow and thrive.”
