TALK Newsletter - February

Welcome to the February edition of TALK

Theme: Taking the Initiative

FIRST Thoughts…

Taking the Initiative – February at FIRST

February has been a month of action and forward thinking. At FIRST, we believe that progress begins with the courage to take the first step and create opportunities through decisive action.

For us, taking the initiative means recognising opportunities and acting on them. It is about stepping forward with courage, making informed decisions and turning ideas into reality. In enterprise and entrepreneurship, those who take action are the ones who drive progress and shape their own success.

We’ve chosen this theme for February because it highlights the power of action. Progress does not happen by chance - it happens when ideas are put into motion and steps are taken towards a goal. Even the smallest action can create new possibilities.

As we move into March, let’s continue to build on this momentum and embrace the opportunities ahead.

February at FIRST

Fully Funded, Accredited Enterprise Courses

🌟 Take the Leap into Self-Employment! 🌟

This month, we’re empowering aspiring entrepreneurs build courage and confidence through our Level 1 "Understanding Enterprise" course. Whether you're just starting out or looking for guidance on self-employment, this fully-funded programme is designed to equip you with the skills and connections you need to succeed.

From mastering networking strategies to gaining the courage to take the first step, our practical and supportive approach ensures you’re ready to make your business dreams a reality.

💬 What our learners are saying:

“I feel like it has opened me up to a different way of thinking”
“I feel more confident and now have the courage to go forward”

🌟 Ready to start your journey? Click the links below to find out more information…

LEVEL 1 COURSE DATES

LEVEL 2 COURSE DATES

A Night of Inspiration and Opportunity

A Night of Connection – Startup Awards North East 2025 Launch Party!

On 6th February, we officially launched Startup Awards North East 2025, supported by Business Enterprise Fund, creating a fantastic evening of networking and celebration! 🎉

The event brought together learners, past finalists, partners, and the FIRST team, all united by their passion for entrepreneurship. Guests enjoyed a fireside chat with previous winners, a video showcasing inspiring success stories and key partners and plenty of great food—all while making valuable new connections.

A big thank you to everyone who attended and made the night special. We can't wait to see what this year's applicants achieve!

👉 Applications for Startup Awards North East 2025 are now open – could this be your year?

Click here to apply

Spreading the Good News

Random Acts of Kindness Day

We celebrated Random Acts of Kindness Day (17th February) by embracing small gestures that make a big impact. Over the past week, the FIRST team has been making crafts for each other, watering colleagues' plants, leaving motivational notes, making cups of tea and coffee and sharing words of gratitude on our office whiteboard.

These simple acts have been a reminder that kindness doesn’t have to be grand—it’s often the little things that brighten someone’s day. Why not take a moment today to do something thoughtful for a friend, colleague, or even a stranger? Let’s keep the kindness going! 💛✨

Learner Spotlight: Inspiring Journeys

Honouring Loved Ones with Dignity: The Story Behind T&G Direct Funeral Services

TREVOR & GAYLE SHINGLER

T&G Direct Funeral Services

T&G Direct Funeral Care provides professional, cost-effective funeral services for Sunderland and the surrounding areas, offering families affordable funerals without compromising on quality. Their services ensure that families can honour their loved ones without financial strain. They are committed to delivering compassionate and respectful funerals that don’t cost the earth.

From corporate life to entrepreneurship:

Trevor, a former corporate funeral home employee, was disillusioned with high funeral costs. Despite fears of losing money and the responsibility of running a business, Trevor was motivated by his belief in affordable funeral care and with the support of his wife, Gayle and father-in-law, Bob. In October 2023, he invested £25,000 to establish his own funeral home, T&G Direct Funeral Services, offering compassionate and affordable funeral services.

Celebrating success:

Encouraged by non-profit business advisors BIC, Trevor entered the ScaleUP category of Startup Awards and won the High Growth Award. He continues to work with BIC and the Entrepreneurs Forum, aiming to establish his business within two years. Trevor also collaborates closely with the charity Billy’s Lifeline, which supports those affected by suicide. He funded the charity’s website and provides advice to victims' families. Recently, he was invited to become a trustee for the charity.

Trevor’s journey was showcased at the 2024 Startup Awards North East, highlighting his dedication to making funeral care more accessible. If you’d like to gain recognition for your own business journey, apply now and take the next step towards success.

March's Sneak Peeks

Get Your Business Pitch-Ready with the Investor Ready Accelerator

On Thursday 20th March 2025, entrepreneurs and startups will have the opportunity to gain essential investment knowledge at the Investor Ready Accelerator, a one-day intensive programme at The Fed, Gateshead from 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM.

Designed to help businesses attract investment and scale with confidence, the event will feature expert-led workshops covering:

✅ Finance & Funding – What investors look for and how to structure your finances.
✅ Legal Essentials – Contracts, investment agreements, and protecting your business.
✅ Perfecting Your Pitch – Communicating your vision with confidence and impact.

Alongside valuable networking opportunities with industry professionals, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs, this accelerator is the perfect pre-event to the 2025 Startup Awards North East, helping businesses prepare for future growth.

📍 Free to attend – lunch provided.

🔗 Secure your place now and take a crucial step towards investment success!

Get your ticket here

March’s Free, Accredited, Entrepreneurship Courses

March is shaping up to be a fantastic month at FIRST, with brand-new courses designed to help you build courage, develop key skills, and take meaningful steps towards your goals.

Kicking off on 11th March, our Level 1 Understanding Enterprise course welcomes two new cohorts. Whether you’re exploring self-employment or looking to develop enterprise skills, this course provides a supportive space to gain courage and direction.

Later in the month, on 27th March, our Level 2 Customer Ready course begins. This programme is all about refining your business skills, from understanding your audience to strengthening your brand—while also supporting your personal growth.

If you’re ready to invest in yourself and take the next step, we’re here to help you make it happen!