Welsh SMEs call for funding and skills support at first Chamber roadshow
Welsh SMEs call for funding and skills support at first Chamber roadshow
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More than 50 businesses have taken part in the first SME Support and Connect Roadshow hosted by Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, as leaders across the region highlighted major challenges including access to finance, rising costs and skilled labour shortages.
The Cardiff event, held in partnership with accountancy firm Xeinadin, marked the launch of a new roadshow series designed to engage directly with growing enterprises across Wales. The Chamber said its aim is to create collaborative environments where companies can share experiences and work together on practical solutions to common barriers.
Each event will focus on issues identified within its local business community and feature insight from a mix of industry specialists. The Cardiff programme centred on helping firms struggling to scale due to limited funding options and included contributions from Development Bank of Wales, Hexa Finance, Xeinadin, Cardiff Business School’s Help to Grow team and Tailwind Group Limited.
An interactive live poll conducted during the session revealed the top pressures facing attendees: high operational costs, difficulties recruiting skilled workers and challenges securing finance. Organisers said the instant feedback helped shape discussion in real time.
Gus Williams, CEO of Chambers Wales South East, South West and Mid, said the format demonstrated the value of bringing businesses and advisers together.
“Our roadshow series is designed to do two things: equip businesses with real solutions and expert support, and give businesses a platform to be heard. Our Cardiff roadshow demonstrated the power of collaboration in action. By bringing together a range of experts and business leaders, we created a space where challenges could be openly discussed, and practical solutions explored.
“Rising operational costs, recruitment issues and access to finance continue to weigh heavily on Welsh businesses, but by sharing knowledge and working together, we can start to unlock new pathways for growth.”
Guest speaker Nigel Griffiths, Co-Founder and Lead Growth Architect at Tailwind Group Limited, said the event helped SMEs gain fresh perspective on growth opportunities.
“It was great to take part in such an engaging event focused on helping SMEs to thrive. We spoke about the importance of taking a step back to review your products or services, understand your customers, explore new markets and drive innovation.
“Sometimes the most impactful changes come from the simplest shifts in perspective, and events like this give businesses the clarity and confidence to make them.”
The Chamber plans to hold further SME Support and Connect Roadshow events in the coming months, with updates to be shared via LinkedIn and on its website.
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