Online channel offers business advice to SMEs

The BCC has created a specialist online TV resource for SMEs

The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) and Dell, in collaboration with Intel, have created a specialist online TV resource offering expert commentary and advice to small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).

Smallbusinessadvice.tv was developed after research found that the small-business community is disappointed with business-oriented TV, despite the initial enthusiasm for UK programmes like Dragon's Den and The Apprentice.

Industry experts will offer commentary and advice on the site, which will also provide 'how to' tips on key subjects and small-business case studies.

"I meet with businesses every day and have often heard criticism about the usefulness of a great deal of current business programming," said John Dunsmure, managing director of the BCC. "Smallbusinessadvice.tv is designed to plug this gap for targeted and highly practical content."

The research revealed that a quarter of respondents believe that existing TV programmes dumb down the public's perception of real business people. Similarly, 27 per cent also thought that such programmes do not help viewers deal with real business situations.

Nearly three quarters of those surveyed would be interested in more relevant specialist business programming for small businesses on the internet for live viewing or download, leading to the development of the new site.

"Small businesses are a vital part of the UK economy," said Dave Marmonti, president for Dell in EMEA.

"Dell wants to play a key role in helping small businesses thrive, and has launched smallbusinessadvice.tv with the BCC to be a practical information resource, providing advice on a wide range of topics that owners can draw on to make their own business a success."

The show will be hosted by former CNBC anchor Sean Walsh, and the first episode will air on 28 November. Each show is aired live with content available on demand following each live broadcast, and viewers will be able to submit questions during each show.