19th February 2026 • The HERALD • Page 65 v INDEPENDENT, LOCAL AND PROUD v ASK A PROFESSIONAL Looking for a Bookkeeper? Sole Trader - Limited Company Self Assessment, Accounts, Payroll Please call Johanna on 023 8089 9365 Free Online Workshops Launched to Support New Forest Small Businesses Small business owners across the New Forest and surrounding areas are being invited to take advantage of a new programme of free, online workshops, designed to provide practical support and guidance they can apply straight away. e workshops are aimed at small businesses at all stages, covering key topics such as marketing, sales, social media and the everyday use of AI. ey form part of the New Forest Business Support Programme, delivered by IncuHive on behalf of New Forest District Council and funded through the Government’s UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The programme is designed to help residents aged 18 and over who are starting or growing a business in its early stages. e programme includes the following sessions: Simple Marketing for Small Businesses 25th February, 10am–11.30am. Sales Made Simple 4th March, 10am–11.30am. Social Media Masterclass 11th March, 10am–11.30am. Everyday AI for Small Business 18th March, 10am–11.30am. Each session is concise, practical and delivered by experienced business advisers. e workshops are designed to complement one-to-one mentoring and provide business owners with tools and insights they can use immediately. Rich Burn, Business Adviser at IncuHive, said: “I work with a lot of business owners who want clear answers to everyday challenges, whether that’s winning more work, improving their marketing or making better use of digital tools. These workshops give people the chance to step back, learn something new and then bring those ideas into their business in a way that works for them.” Cllr Derek Tipp, New Forest District Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning and Economy, added: “Supporting local enterprise is vital for the prosperity of our communities. These free workshops give small business owners practical tools and expert guidance to help them succeed. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, this programme is a fantastic opportunity to build confidence and strengthen your business.” Places are limited and advance booking is required. To book, visit: incuhive.co.uk/ upcoming-events-2 Business owners can also access free 1:1 mentoring with IncuHive’s dedicated New Forest business adviser, Rich Burn, alongside the workshop programme. For further information please contact IncuHive email: support@incuhive.co.uk or call: 0800 689 3564. Oakhaven Business Club runs regular networking events with local businesses across the New Forest, Waterside and Totton. Businesses can pay-as-you-go per person per session, or become an annual member. Tuesday 3rd March, 12noon-2pm, enjoy a delicious 2 course lunch at the beautiful Tonic Rooms based at Sunny elds Farm, £27.50. Tuesday 14th April, 9.30am– 1.30am, New Forest Walk and Work at e Haven – an hours walk around the salt marshes followed by tea/co ee and cake, £15. Thursday 23rd April, 5pm-7pm, celebrate Spring with wine and canapes at the delightful Moorhill House Hotel in Burley, £22. For more information about how to join the Oakhaven Business Club or to book a space for one of their networking events please visit: www. oakhavenhospice.co.uk/oakhavenbusiness-club Upcoming Oakhaven Business Club Networking Events
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