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- Kent Business Newsletter - Issue 6
Kent Business Newsletter - Issue 6
Your connection to Kent's business community
Kent Business Newsletter
August 07, 2025
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Hello Kent Business Community
Kent’s business community is growing - and fast.
From a standing start just six weeks ago, the Kent Business Newsletter has now attracted over 2,200 subscribers - and more are joining every day. That’s 2,200 local people who want to hear what’s happening in businesses across the county. If you’ve got business news, updates or offers to share, now’s the time to get in front of our engaged local audience!
Got a business launch, win or story to share? Send it to [email protected] and we’ll help spread the word - at no cost!
If you missed last week’s edition you can catch-up here.
In this issue: Kent Business News | Business Radio Show | Networking Events | Kent Expert Insights | Business Events | Kent Jobs | After Work
Kent Business News Updates…
➡️ Could Your Business Be One Of Kent’s Success Stories Recognised By The King?
The King’s Awards for Enterprise 2026 are now open - and if you're innovating, growing overseas, championing sustainability, or making a difference in your community, this is your chance to shine. Winners receive a Royal Reception invitation, national press coverage, and the right to use the prestigious King’s Awards emblem on all marketing - a serious boost to your brand and reputation.
What’s more, The Kent Foundation is encouraging local businesses and entrepreneurs to apply and is especially keen to support young founders in putting their work on the national stage.
The best part? It’s completely free to enter, and businesses of all sizes can apply.
Find out who can apply, what’s involved, and why this award could transform your business. Read more details here.
➡️ A Young Businesswoman From Kent Has Been Named As A Finalist In The BFA British Franchising Awards
Kent’s young entrepreneur Wafa Mohbubul is making waves in the franchising world, earning her a spot as a finalist in the prestigious BFA HSBC British Franchise Awards.
At just 25, Wafa has transformed her Home Instead franchise, significantly boosting revenue and expanding her team of caregivers to enhance local care services for older residents. Having moved from tech to care-giving driven by her passion for community impact, Wafa credits her entrepreneurial spirit to her family's influence and her exceptional team. With the award ceremony fast approaching, discover more about Wafa’s inspiring journey and why she's been shortlisted among the UK's top young franchisees. Read in full here.
➡️ Medway Businesses Can Now Access Double The Funding - Here’s How To Apply
Medway Council has doubled the funding available through its two main grant schemes, giving local SMEs more help to grow or go green.
The Partners for Growth (PFG) grant now offers up to £2,000 for business development, job creation or expansion. The Partners for Green Growth (PFGG) grant has risen from £2,500 to £5,000 to support sustainability - from energy efficiency to waste reduction.
Free net-zero audits are also available via Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce, helping businesses cut emissions and energy costs.
Based in Medway and planning to grow or go green? Now’s the time to act. Read in full here.
➡️ Big Money Moves in Hythe: £6m Loan Secured Against Iconic Kent Hotel
The 92-bedroom Hythe Imperial Hotel & Spa is at the centre of a major new deal, with £6 million in fresh finance secured by GSE Property Group. The standout leisure destination, featuring a restaurant, spa, ballroom and more, has caught the backing of Hilco Real Estate Finance - a rising force in the UK bridging loan space. This marks another milestone for the family-run GSE team and a clear vote of confidence in Kent’s hotel sector. Read the full article here.
➡️ Ashford Mayor Backs Fight Against Dementia With Charity Pledge
Ashford’s Mayor, Councillor Lyn Suddards, has named Alzheimer’s Research UK as one of her two official charities for 2025/26, launching a year of heartfelt fundraising across the borough. Motivated by personal loss, the Mayor aims to rally support for dementia research in a region where over 26,000 people are already affected.
With no NHS treatment currently available, the Mayor is calling on the Kent community to get behind the cause and help fund vital research that could change the future. Want to know how you can support or get involved in the local events? Read in full here.
Quick Poll - just for fun…
What’s your biggest business headache right now?Click your choice. It will be recorded and we'll show the results next week. |
👉️ Results from last week’s poll…
Q. What's your approach to out-of-office emails?
10% - Use them religiously
86% - Only for holidays
4% - I don’t ever switch off
The results are in:
A handful of you use out-of-office like it’s a wellness ritual.
The majority only bother when they’ve got a boarding pass.
And the rest are either superheroes or dangerously close to emailing from beyond the grave.
Kent Entrepreneur Deep Dive…
Meet the Medway Couple Making Digital Simple For Kent’s Small Businesses
  | After years working long shifts in engineering and healthcare, Matt and Amy White decided it was time for a change. Inspired by personal loss and a desire for more freedom, they launched M&A Digital Solutions to focus on helping Kent businesses grow online without the jargon. One year in, they’re supporting start-ups and independents with websites, branding, SEO and marketing - combining creativity with a down-to-earth, personal approach. In this inspiring interview, they share:
👉 Discover how two everyday locals are helping Kent businesses thrive. |
Kent Expert Insights…
How Kent Savers Can Grow Their Money Long-Term - Without Chasing Get-Rich-Quick Schemes
 | Louise Fitzgerald from Sterling & Law Tunbridge Wells shares why long-term investing - through ISAs, pensions and property - is still the safest, smartest path to wealth. It’s not about overnight success, but time, tax efficiency, and smart planning. In The Smart Investor’s Guide to Long-Term Wealth, she explains why “time in the market” beats “timing the market”, and how Kent residents can build real security with simple, proven tools. She’s also offering free 30-minute consultations to help locals review their investments. |
👉 If you’re ready to make your money grow steadily, don’t miss this. Read in full here.
Kent Networking Events…
Connecting with fellow entrepreneurs, potential partners, and customers is vital for business growth. Kent offers a variety of networking opportunities (you could literally go to a different one every day if you wanted!) to help you expand your professional circle and enhance your business prospects.
✨ Upcoming Networking Events in Kent ✨
Synergy Networking - Free Event
The Mindset Business Academy
When: TODAY Thursday 7th Aug 2025 from 2.00pm - 3.30pm. Location: Virtual - Online Details: Join Denise Holland for a transformative session where we’ll explore a radically different understanding of performance, confidence, and resilience-drawn from the world of elite sport and reimagined for everyday life. Website: Click here |  FREE VIRTUAL EVENT |
Kent Invicta Chamber Of Commerce
Business Bites - Boosting Productivity
When: Friday 8th August 2025. From 1pm - 1.30pm Where: Free Virtual Event Details: Business Bites are a series of short webinars on topics relevant to your company irrespective of your size or industry. This sessions guest speaker will be Simon Marshall from Action Coach Website: Click here |  Free Virtual Event |
Kent Invicta Chamber Of Commerce
Business Talks - Big Cat Sanctuary
When: Tuesday 12th August 2025. From 10.30am - 12.00pm Where: Big Cat Sanctuary, Ashford Details: This relaxed morning is the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals from a variety of industries, spark new ideas, and support vital conservation efforts. Website: Click here |  Big Cat Sanctuary |
Synergy Networking
Tunbridge Wells
When: Tuesday 12th August 2025 from 6.30pm - 8.30pm. Location: Royal Wells Hotel, Tunbridge Wells Details: Join us for a fantastic evening of networking at our Tunbridge Wells event at Royal Wells Hotel! Connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and build valuable relationships. Website: Click here |  Royal Wells Hotel, Tunbridge Wells |
➡️ Quick Tip For Effective Networking…
Research Attendees Beforehand!
If the event shares a guest list, review it and identify key people or businesses you’d like to connect with. This helps you create a focused approach rather than leaving it to chance.
Business Events & Shows In Kent…
Let your business shine and enter this year's Medway Business Awards.
Submissions are due by midnight tomorrow - 8th August. The gala awards evening will take place on Friday, November 14th, at The Corn Exchange in Rochester. This spectacular event will feature a three-course dinner, a disco, and the presentation of certificates and awards.
Kent Business Radio Show…
Paul and Jules were firing on all cylinders this week, serving up their trademark blend of sharp business insights and timely local updates - from breaking news to upcoming events, and everything Kent’s business community needs to stay ahead.
On the show this week was Heather Carpenter owner of Mara-Amore glass art shop in Tenterden https://mara-amore.ie.
To listen to this week’s show in full visit Kent Business Radio
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Kent Job Board…
Explore the latest job postings from Kent businesses seeking talent. Are you looking to expand your team? Contact us today to have your local vacancy listed.
✨Featured Job Openings
Position & Company | Details |
|---|---|
Leading Edge Packaging | We have an opportunity for a Customer Service Executive to join our business and to be part of our highly successful Customer Service Team. See website for more info. |
LCP Automotive Components | Long established Kent family firm in the automotive industry are looking for a purchase ledger clerk to join their small but friendly team at their Gillingham Head Office. See website for more info. |
Longleys | We’re looking for more drivers to join the Longleys team. We’ll provide the car, cover the fuel and insurance, and give you the flexibility to work the hours that suit you. Whether you're looking for full-time income or part-time top up, we’ll help you find the right fit. See website for more info. |
➡️ Quick Tip for Job Seekers…
Show, Don’t Tell
Instead of simply saying you have skills, back them up with mini case studies in your CV or LinkedIn profile. Example: “Improved social engagement by 45% through targeted content campaigns.”
Work Hard, Play Hard…
After a long week of hard work, it's time to unwind and enjoy yourself and there’s no better place to do it than right here in Kent!
Kent’s summer events calendar is packed with brilliant festivals, live music, family fun and food galore. We’ve rounded up a few of our top picks to help you make the most of it.
Cheers!
➡️ Motor Mule Festival - 8th-10th August. Birchington
➡️ Disco’s for Grown-Ups - 8th August. Folkestone
➡️ Broadstairs Folk Week - 8th - 15th August. Broadstairs
Kent Business Community, before you go…
➡️ Do you have exciting news to share about your business?
➡️ Would you like to advertise to an audience of decision makers in Kent?
➡️ Would you like to feature in the Entrepreneurs Deep Dive section?
➡️ Do you have a job vacancy you’d like us to post?
Contact us today - [email protected]
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