http://youtu.be/-ghDSTRqyZ8
Background • Started with a small project with a local Junior School • Small IT Link project in Guildford • Support our Digital Inclusion and Employment and Training Programme • Universal JobMatch and Universal Credit • Addressing education, skills and employment issues across the borough • One stop shop – hub of activity (Connexions) • Local use and good cause for business and educational establishments to support • It sounded a great idea !
MAY 2014
What we offer • Windows 7 Desktop PC’s from £55 and Laptops from £75 • Repairs from £35 plus parts • Free in store Wifi • Free Digital Skills training • Free employment advice • Free Broadband advice • Volunteering and work experience placements in a supportive environment • Life Coaching/professional support • Information and advice pack for first time users • An easy way for companies to meet their CSR objectives • A much needed service
Achievements to date • Secured premises in The Galleries, Aldershot on peppercorn rent, ahead of opening the unit in May 2014 • Built up a team of three full-time staff – Project Manager, Assistant Manager, and Life Coach • Secured £57,000 of external funding to support the project • Secured over 500 computers from local schools, colleges and businesses • Provided voluntary placements for 52 people
• Provided work experience placements for 23 people, with 39% of those going on to secure work as a direct result of their experience with TechStart. • Hosted 12 training courses, enabling people to develop new skills • Signed up 386 members who regularly use the free internet access in our shop • Carried out 206 low cost repairs and sold 355 computers • In February, 2015, we celebrated serving our 1000 th customer
Future Developments • Updating Business Plan and Cashflow • Reviewing Governance and Management model/structure • Looking at development of online sales and marketing • Possible expansion into other areas • External funding bids
Contact Website: www.techstart.org.uk Twitter: @TechStart Facebook: TechStart Phone: 01252 311660 Email: info@techstart.org.uk
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