To coincide with Global Entrepreneurship Week Nov 15-19 the British Library held a series of free events at the BL Business & IP Centre. These days focused on New Innovations, Social Enterprises and Womens' Enterprises giving business owners the opportunity to talk to specialists in marketing and funding, as well as business coaching and mentoring.

A packed auditorium enjoyed a special panel event Question Time for Entrepreneurs on 19 November with Deborah Meaden (Dragons' Den investor and entrepreneur), Cath Kidston (Cath Kidston Ltd), Tom Bewick (chief executive Enterprise UK), and Brent Hoberman (co-founder lastminute.com and mydeco.com), chaired by broadcaster and journalist Adam Shaw.

The entrepreneurs, © Miranda Gavin

The entrepreneurs enjoy the intro, © Miranda Gavin

The panel answered questions on setting up and growing a business in the current economic climate, including business plans, banking and the benefits of social media, among others. The following excerpts were filmed on my iPhone so the image is a little shaky at first, as it is handheld, but the audio is fine. The entire clip is approx 9 mins long.

In the bar area just before the Question Time panel, © Miranda Gavin

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