This is the first of our brand new newsletters exclusively for Chamber members.  We aim to keep you informed with hints and tips to help your business, for example, how you can put yourself in the frame for more business and better value purchasing with Business Network Online.

Please forward this newsletter to any colleagues who may benefit

If you would like to be added to the list for circulation please send your email address to marshawright@nscci.co.uk

Did you know that you can register free of charge to receive business opportunities from fellow Chamber Members.  You can also post your own purchasing requirements to get the best local price.

Business Network Online is a trading platform unique to Chambers of Commerce, it's easy to use and you can be up and ready for business in minutes.  It works by matching up business opportunities with companies registerd on our database who have identified that they can supply a particular product or service.

Click here to get started:
http://northstaffs.thebusinessnetworkonline.com/

If you are new to Business Network Online you'll need your username and password.  Please contact the Membership Team on 01782 202222 or marshawright@nscci.co.uk

Winners of the Chamber Awards 2009, including the grand prize of £50,000, will be announced at the Gala Dinner on November 26 2009 at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich. The categories for the Chamber Awards 2009 are:

• Business of the Year
• Award for Innovation through Technology
• Most Promising New business
• Entrepreneur of the Year
• Achievement in International Business
• Award for Excellence in International Business
• Award for Excellence in People Development
• The Green Award
• Excellence in Customer Service 

Business of the Year will win £50,000 cash prize sponsored by RBS, can you afford not to enter? The closing date for this year's entries is 26 June 2009. Full details on all awards and entry forms can be found at: The Chambers Awards Web Site

THINK SMART
British Chambers of Commerce website dedicated to surviving the recession
During these tough times businesses need to not only work harder but harder and smarter about the way they do business. Identify challenges and seize opportunities, focus your business plans and re-evaluate your business strategy. Below you will find a wealth of advice and information to help steer your business through the current downturn.
http://www.britishchambers.org.uk/6798219246901659918/top-tips.html#3