Businesses in Hackney are being offered the opportunity to join a new network that can offer them targeted support and advice.

The Hackney Enterprise Network (HEN) is run by HBV Enterprise on behalf of Hackney Council and is designed to help local entrepreneurs to make new contacts, enter new markets, grow and fund their businesses.

Support includes business skills workshops, advice on enterprise growth, access to loans and small grants, advice for businesses hit by the economic crisis, business to business networking events and access to business information and initiatives from central Government.

Cllr Guy Nicholson, Hackney Council Cabinet Member for Regeneration and the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, said: "Entrepreneurship is at the heart of Hackney s economy and it is through the Hackney Enterprise Network that the Council can offer our local businesses practical support and advice to meet the challenges of the current economic climate and to look towards future growth and prosperity."

Richard Abbott, Chief Executive of HBV Enterprise, said: “Since opening our doors 25 years ago, we’ve helped thousands of local enterprises to start, raise finance and grow. Our experience makes us the ideal organisation to deliver this service to Hackney businesses on behalf of the Council. And it couldn’t come at a better time for local businesses looking to survive and grow. We aim to make Hackney Enterprise Network THE gateway to all the right connections for Hackney’s businesses.”

Businesses can register their interest in joining the Hackney Enterprise Network (HEN) by calling: 020 7241 7087, visiting the website: www.hbv.org.uk/hackneyenterprisenetwork.html or e-mailing: hen@hbv.org.uk Alternatively, visit: HBV Enterprise, 34-38 Dalston Lane, London, E8 2AZ.