Olympic Business Opportunities
As the whole of the UK looks forward to an exciting summer of sport, so business opportunities are arising across the country from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Here are some initiatives that businesses in South Lakeland might want to consider getting involved with.
Supplying Goods, Works and Services
The London 2012 Business Network website has been created to help businesses get involved in supplying the necessary goods, works and services for the Olympic and Paralympic games. All Games-related contract opportunities can be accessed via CompeteFor, a portal that acts as a brokerage service between buyers and suppliers throughout the London 2012 supply chain. The system is free to use and includes a business support services to help businesses access these potentially lucrative opportunities.
Lloyds TSB has also created a dedicated section of its website providing support and information to help in winning new business and getting ready for the games themselves.
Opportunities in the North West
Be Inspired is an initiative set up by the North West Development Agency to encourage everyone in the region, from businesses to schools, sports clubs, charities and entire communities, to maximise the opportunities presented by London 2012. It is also using the Games as a catalyst to help deliver existing North West priorities in areas such as skills, tourism and business.
Tourism
UK inbound tourism will increase in 2012 and beyond following the exposure the Games will generate. http://www.tourism2012games.org/ is a website set up help UK tourism professionals and businesses recognise the opportunities available as a result of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Olympic Sponsorship Opportunities for SMEs
A special programme has been created for SMEs that do not have the financial capacity to take on big Olympic sponsorship deals. The Team 2012 Programme aims to raise money for the training of 1,200 British athletes. Businesses that sign up have the opportunity to link to the Olympics brand, attend networking events, access staff training and obtain tickets to the London 2012 Olympic Games.