A NEW online facility created by government for local businesses to share information, services and resources will be officially launched by the Department of Economic Development at Energy Expo 2011 in May.
‘Business Synergies’ helps businesses improve efficiency and create new revenue and jobs whilst saving money through sharing of resources.
Energy Expo 2011 will be held on Friday and Saturday May 6 and 7 at the Isle of Man College when there will be a formal launch of the facility which was originally established in late 2009.
In the subsequent 18 months the scheme has attracted 55 businesses to become registered and has identified over 200 possible synergies.
The new online facility will be a central location for new and existing members of the scheme to register their available resources or requirements, for sale or exchange. Members will be able to access the facility 24/7 to record up-to-date information and to identify potential business synergies with other members.
The facility was developed in consultation with current members to improve the accessibility of information and to encourage more businesses to register with the scheme.
The announcement of the new online facility will take place along with the annual Energy Champions awards ceremony, which acknowledges the achievements of the Island’s businesses and public sector organisations in reducing their energy consumption and improving their energy efficiency.
Both of these events will be held on the afternoon of Friday May 6 at the Isle of Man College from 3pm onwards and those interested in attending should contact the Department on 682367 or 687142.
Minister for Economic Development, Allan Bell MHK said, “The Energy Champions Awards have proven very popular with local businesses and Government Departments and highlight some of the successful energy-saving projects undertaken.
“The world is experiencing high energy costs, and savings achieved through energy efficiency create a competitive advantage for Isle of Man businesses. The Business Synergies scheme aims to further increase these savings for local businesses through collaboration and the new online facility will identify opportunities and ease the process.”
Mrs Clare Christian MLC, Department Member with responsibility for Energy, added, “I have been involved in the Business Synergies Scheme from the outset and I am delighted to see it developing particularly as the new online facility will be more user friendly and accessible. This scheme offers an opportunity for local businesses to improve their efficiency.”
