Opening Morning
The ‘Tech Hub’ officially opened on Saturday 22 November. Despite the cold and damp weather, more than thirty people attended to learn about the Hub and explore the facilities. Visitors enjoyed refreshments (coloured in the Hub’s striking blue branding) while some joined an informal introduction to binary code. Others browsed the business and technology library, or asked the Hub Team and volunteers questions about the learning and support the Hub will offer.
There was strong interest in a wide range of topics, from basic training in Microsoft Office to more advanced skills such as coding and building web apps. Attendees showed real enthusiasm for developing new digital skills, and several experienced community members kindly offered support and mentoring. We were particularly grateful to several volunteers who gave up their time to come and host the Opening Morning!
Why Has the Hub Been Set Up?
The Enterprise & Technology Hub has been created to help businesses and individuals develop their digital skills and take advantage of new opportunities in the digital economy, while also highlighting Alderney as an attractive place to live and work.
The Hub aims to show how technology can connect and empower people, and everyone is invited to get involved, learn, and share their experiences.
The Hub will help by:
- Supporting digital skills development through training, workshops, and resources covering basic IT, online safety, coding, and digital marketing.
- Attracting and supporting start-ups, new businesses, and digital workers by acting as a “launchpad” with business advice and practical facilities.
- Promoting local businesses and expertise, and extending access to resources from Digital Greenhouse Guernsey and the Alderney Chamber of Commerce.
The Hub also offers a co-working space, with hot-desking, videoconferencing (available shortly), and private meeting room facilities.
Statements from the States of Alderney
In the States of Alderney press release, Stuart Clarke, Chair of the Economic Development Committee 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.
We are excited to show how technology can connect and empower us, and we welcome everyone to take part, learn and share their experiences together.’
What Are Our Next Steps?
The Hub team is now focusing on activities that will have impact in the short and medium term, while also preparing for longer-term growth. These next steps include:
- Organising a programme of events, including training sessions, workshops, and competitions, to introduce islanders to digital skills.
- Listening to the needs and priorities of local learners and developing more structured programmes in response.
- Strengthening the Hub’s website and online presence to promote activities and support people considering relocating to Alderney.
Get Involved
The Hub Team are keen to hear from anyone who wants to improve their digital skills — whether you need help getting started with Teams, want to understand Excel better, or are interested in building and launching your own app, support is available.