AMBITIOUS entrepreneurs are being given the chance to road test their new businesses to see how it fares in a town centre setting, with a new space available for short-term lettings.

The HWBIDCo says it is throwing down the gauntlet to challenge new or start-up businesses to take advantage of the offer and try their hand at trading at the Enterprise HQ space in Church Street.

The space, over two floors, can be on a straightforward license to occupy, with short-term lets ranging from a couple of days through to a maximum of six weeks, if the business offer is a strong enough proposition.

HWBIDCo Director with responsibility for Enterprise and Commercial Space, Matt Clarke, said: “Town centres need to take control over their own futures. The BID company, HWBIDCo, is looking to actively support the process of generating new tenants for some of our empty spaces. We are not just looking for retail businesses but all manner of creative enterprises to make our town centre as vibrant and future-proof as possible.”

The HWBIDCo, which is dedicated to boosting the fortunes of the town centre, says demand for the space is already growing and so interested businesses should look at the organisation’s website as soon as possible. It is also possible for individual traders to share the space and save costs, while ‘creative collectives’ are also being encouraged to get in touch.

It adds that the project boasts a growing portfolio of business support so occupants of Enterprise HQ can take advantage of advice and guidance to make the most of their situation.

To kick off the occupation of the unit, HWBIDCo has provided space for Wycombe Sound for the duration of their second broadcasting license from November 27 through to December 24.

HWBIDCo Chief Executive, Oliver O’Dell, said; “Having the radio station as the first tenant in the unit is a real bonus for us. The fact that they are a new business seeking a full license, and public support, fits our ethos to support enterprising and creative people. It also gives some of the businesses interested in the space a valuable opportunity to become more media savvy and to build a public profile prior to their tenancy.”

Philippa Sawyer from Wycombe Sound said: “As soon as we heard about Enterprise HQ we knew we had to be based there this year- it's a perfect fit. Competition was tough but we are delighted to be chosen as the first tenants. We look forward to launching Enterprise HQ and providing a platform for all the entrepreneurs coming through in the New Year.”

www.hwbidco.co.uk