Ward Goodman, Dorset’s leading independent chartered accountants, auditors and financial advisors, were delighted to be invited to speak at the recent Dorset LEADER programme at Kingston Maurward College in Dorchester.
The Dorset LEADER is a unique European funding programme, where local people make decisions about what and where rural funding would make the greatest difference. Delegates listened to talks about a range of LEADER funded projects focusing on land-based sector, rural business, tourism and community.
Dorset has benefitted from three successful programmes from 2000 to 2020, each delivered by community led Local Action Groups in support of rural prosperity and sustainable communities.
With the future of rural funding uncertain, the theme of this year’s event was “Get ready for new beginnings and opportunities for funding in rural Dorset.” Ward Goodman’s talk was focussed on ‘rural business and public sector support’
Ward Goodman’s Managing Director, Ian Rodd said: “Ward Goodman recognises the importance of rural funding and how it can affect rural businesses. We have been working on our own research project into the most important issues facing enterprise in rural Dorset, to see where future funding streams could be applied to make the most difference.”
Ian’s presentation revealed some early findings from interviews carried out with rural business people across Dorset over the last 6 months. This included the effective use of older buildings and the difficulties around scaling up and employing people. Full results of this project will be available in the New Year and could contribute to the wider LEP strategic plan for business in Dorset.
Additional speakers included: Action with Communities Rural England (ACRE), Dorset Council, Dorset Local Enterprise Partnership, Dorset Tourism Association, Inspiring LEADER funded projects, National Farmers Union (South West), Northern Dorset Local Action Group, Southern Dorset Local Action Group
For more information about Ward Goodman, visit www.wardgoodman.co.uk or call 01202 875900.
Picture: Ian Rodd, Managing Director, Ward Goodman at the Dorset LEADER programme