Dorset has some of the best connectivity in the UK - but some businesses lack the skills to make use of the opportunity, according to Superfast Dorset.

A new collaboration to help SMEs across Dorset to exploit today’s digital opportunities starts on Friday, November 17 as part of the North Dorset Business Day in Sturminster Newton.

Business advisors at the Growth Hub are teaming up with Superfast Dorset which has brought the chance to connect to superfast broadband to 80,000 premises including thousands of businesses. People can find out about availability and pick up some digital tips at the same time.

Last year Superfast Dorset asked businesses which had superfast broadband for more than a year how it was helping them. Nearly half said it reduced their costs while over a fifth said it increased their profits. Others said it helped them work in new and different ways, or access new markets.

The results confirm national studies that suggest that from relatively simple steps such as a restaurant adopting online bookings, to wholesale business transformation, all UK companies could benefit by adopting digital ways of working.

Deborah Croney, Dorset County Council cabinet member for economic growth, said: “The Lloyds Bank Business Digital Index 2017, published this month, shows that while businesses and charities are becoming more digitally capable, there is a growing minority or organisations with low capability. This year, 1.6M small businesses lack basic digital skills nationally.

“Meanwhile the most digital business leaders are three times as likely to report increasing turnovers.”

The digital collaboration in Sturminster Newton is part of a wider £13.4million business support scheme. To find out more, contact the Dorset Growth Hub or ring 03454 586 480.

To find out whether you can order a superfast service today, check the checker at mapping.dorsetforyou.gov.uk/superfast/Checker