The Growth Hub Gloucestershire has appointed an experienced new advisor to help Forest of Dean businesses navigate toward success, this September 2026.
And offering a lifeline to Forest-based businesspeople who've seen their commute to Gloucester or Cheltenham impacted by the ongoing roadworks at Over, it's offering a special introductory rate for accessing its coworking space in Mitcheldean, too.
Damon Oldcorn – an experienced entrepreneur who has founded and built a number of emerging tech companies from the UK to Silicon Valley – joins the county's business support network as a business advisor for the Forest of Dean.
Damon's early career was in sales and marketing, which led to board-level management roles for multinationals within the TMT space. More recently, he has acted as a board and business advisor to innovative growth companies in a range of industries, through both his advisory company and diverse networks.
In his new role, Damon will support the Forest of Dean's vibrant business community by helping entrepreneurs and SMEs navigate the opportunities and challenges of starting and growing a business. As a trusted first point of contact, he will connect businesses with specialist expertise, funding opportunities and practical training, ensuring they can access the right support at the right time to achieve sustainable growth.
Julian Tooke, cabinet member for business, economic development, planning and infrastructure at Gloucestershire County Council, said: 'Supporting local businesses is key to creating jobs, driving innovation and strengthening our local economy.
'With Damon providing dedicated support in the Forest of Dean, there has never been a better time for aspiring entrepreneurs and established businesses to reach out and discover how The Growth Hub can help them take their next step.'
Damon said: 'I'm looking forward to building a strong and connected business community across the Forest of Dean, getting to know local business owners, and helping them make the most of the outstanding coworking facilities and business support services available at The Growth Hub Forest of Dean.'
The Growth Hub is also encouraging Forest commuters to take advantage of its spacious coworking facilities at Vantage Point in Mitcheldean – rather than sitting in traffic caused by roadworks at Over Bridge, which are set to extend into next spring – through its special offer of 90-days access for just £30.
Delivered in partnership with Gloucestershire County Council, Forest of Dean District Council and Biz Space, the coworking space at The Growth Hub Forest of Dean has a desk style to suit everyone, with bookable meeting rooms and offices also available onsite, through Biz Space.
Its friendly and welcoming atmosphere offers an opportunity to network with fellow business owners, while there's also extensive free parking and a cafe next door serving 'great' coffee.
Businesses are encouraged to reach out to The Growth Hub online at thegrowthhub.biz, or drop in to The Growth Hub Forest of Dean to discover its coworking spaces, along with the support available from its new business advisor.
