Alderney Launches Enterprise and Technology Hub

As a result of extensive public consultation in 2022, the island community highlighted the need for a one-stop-shop as an economic priority in the Island Plan. The States has subsequently undertaken work to recruit a Relocate Alderney officer as well as identifying other initiatives which have largely fallen short of their objectives.

The Economic Development Committee (EDC) recognises the importance of economic growth, entrepreneurial innovation and investment of time and resource in new and existing on Island businesses. Following extensive collaboration, the Committee has agreed to support and invest in the establishment of the Alderney Enterprise and Technology Hub (AETH) - a new initiative on Alderney.

The AETH will be supporting the growth of existing businesses through digital literacy while also stimulating and encouraging new businesses and residents to Alderney. The Hub will help by:

• Supporting the digital skills of all businesses and workers with training, workshops and other resources in topics such as using basic IT applications, online safety, coding and digital marketing.
  
  
• Attracting and accelerating new and start-up businesses and individual workers, especially those with a digital or online focus.
  
  
• Promoting businesses and local expertise on Alderney and expanding the reach of resources from Digital Greenhouse Guernsey and the Alderney Chamber of Commerce.

The initiative will incorporate a co-working facility in St Anne and will provide hot-desking, videoconferencing and a meeting space.

AETH will leverage funding, resources and skills from different partners, with particular assistance being provided through collaboration with the Digital Greenhouse Guernsey and their extensive programme of events. The initiative will also encourage participation from individuals and businesses on Alderney with skills and experience to share in business and digital topics.

The Chairman of the Economic Development Committee, Stuart Clark said:

'This initiative represents an important step in strengthening Alderney's economy by attracting new businesses and supporting the upskilling of local residents. It delivers on a key action in the Island Plan by creating a one-stop hub for business advice and guidance, both for those looking to establish themselves in Alderney and for existing local enterprises seeking support, training, and skills development.

The AETH also serve visitors to the island who come for work, as well as remote workers and digital nomads who need a professional space for a day and even established businesses looking for an off-site venue to develop their teams.

As a Committee, we will remain in close contact with the Hub to monitor its progress and ensure it fulfils its potential as an economic driver for Alderney. We are grateful to Ian Corder for turning this vision into reality, and we wish him and his team every success in establishing the Hub as a valued asset for our community.'

Ian Corder, Director of the Alderney Enterprise & Technology Hub said:

'Alderney is a beautiful and vibrant place and offers a huge amount for people living here. At the same time, people are keen to see new opportunities for jobs, skills and growth here as well.

The Enterprise & Technology Hub will play a leading role in helping our businesses and individuals develop digital skills and make best use of the new opportunities the digital economy presents, while also promoting the island as an attractive place to live and work.'