Affordable workspaces opening in Wandsworth libraries create business opportunities for all

Wandsworth Council is supporting start-up businesses in the borough with new co-working, office and meeting space, thanks to a partnership with the British Library and local libraries provider, Better.

Start Up Wandsworth is operating initially in the new affordable workspaces at York Gardens library, followed by Putney library later this year, and is part of the wider British Library network of support in London.

The launch of Start Up Wandsworth at York Gardens Library is part of Wandsworth Council’s commitment to provide business support at the heart of local communities – giving aspiring entrepreneurs, start-ups and small businesses the opportunity to grow and access business information.

Councillor Kemi Akinola, Wandsworth Council cabinet member for voluntary sector, business engagement and culture said: “We want people from all communities and abilities in Wandsworth to have the opportunity to start and develop their business which is why we are investing in library-based affordable workspaces.

“Many small businesses and start-ups find it difficult to access the networks and facilities that will help them to grow and thrive, so our support for new affordable workspaces makes Wandsworth a fairer place for people to establish a successful venture.”

The support available from Start Up Wandsworth includes expert-led workshops, 1-2-1s with a business manager, networking events, coworking and office space. In addition, aspiring entrepreneurs, start-ups and established businesses will be able to access business resources, test new business ideas and leverage partnerships to build routes to market for new products and services.

Start Up Wandsworth’s newly furnished and redecorated co-working space, office space and meeting room will also be available for Wandsworth businesses, trainers and community groups to use.

If you’re starting up a business and need access to workspace in Battersea and Putney, find out more and register your interest on the Better website at better.org.uk/start-up-wandsworth

Find out about the wider network of local work facilities supported by Wandsworth’s Affordable Workspace Fund 

About the Start-ups in London Libraries programme

The project is the latest collaboration between Better and the British Library to support start-ups through the Start-ups in London Libraries (SiLL) programme. The new Business and IP Centre will form part of the British Library’s growing national network, which has helped thousands of entrepreneurs across the UK to start and grow their businesses.