A MINISTER has seen how entrepreneurs of the future are being guided at a town enterprise hub.

Economy and North Wales Minister Ken Skates joined a start-up surgery for local entrepreneurs at the Wrexham Enterprise Hub to hear about their experiences and activities.

The Hub is delivered through Business Wales with the aim of creating 100 new businesses over a two year period. The Welsh Government has provided £1m for the pilot project.

It provides a community for entrepreneurs linking with other organisations including Glyndwr University, Coleg Cambria, industry and support agencies in the region.

Mr Skates said: “It’s been good to visit the Hub today and hear directly from the entrepreneurs who are using the facilities, and to hear about their experiences.

“It’s great to see that there is so much enthusiasm and entrepreneurial talent in the region.

“The Welsh Government’s Economic Action Plan is clear that supporting and encouraging entrepreneurship across Wales is absolutely crucial if we are to succeed in growing Wales’ economy

“Now more than ever, with the challenges presented by Brexit, we need to support and encourage new businesses and innovation. These are vital drivers for the economy and Wrexham Enterprise Hub will help inform our future economic priorities.”

Carl Turner, community manager at the Wrexham Enterprise Hub said: “Since launching just under a year ago, we’ve held more than 30 events and supported over 170 individuals. It was Mr Skates himself who cut the ribbon that day, so it’s fitting that he was able to come and speak with some of our members at this impromptu round table.

“Our members got their chance to chat with the minister and discuss their successes and their stumbling blocks, and I know they got a lot out of it. Opportunities like this allow ministers and businesses to mutually benefit from immediate access, and that helps both sides gain further insight into how we can support each other and grow our local economies.”