Supporting Local Businesses

  • Launch business forums for large and small businesses to build strong relationships with local stakeholders, to help me understand how I can best support them in thriving and boosting Leicester's local economy.
  • Establishing advice forums for young and new business owners, for established businesses to share resources, provide advice, and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs.
  • Celebrating local talent by launching my campaigns, like "Made in Leicester", showcasing and promoting businesses, boosting their visibility and success.

I am dedicated to helping Leicester’s businesses grow, thrive, and contribute to a stronger local economy. That’s why I’m launching several initiatives designed to support both large and small businesses, create opportunities, and provide resources that local businesses need to succeed.

In partnership with others, business forums will be established for both large businesses and SMEs, creating spaces where business owners can build relationships, share resources, and collaborate with stakeholders. These forums will help me learn directly from local business leaders about the challenges they face and how I can advocate for policies that support them.

But I also want to make sure that the next generation of Leicester’s entrepreneurs are able to access the right tools to successfully build their businesses. That’s why I’m establishing advice forums that will see local talent supported by existing businesses through providing key advice, collaborating on projects, and ultimately building a strong foundation for the future of Leicester’s local economy.

Finally, through the “Made in Leicester” campaign, we’ll celebrate local talent and showcase the incredible businesses our community has to offer. By nominating and presenting local businesses with awards, we will increase recognition for Leicester’s businesses and create opportunities for them to grow and connect with new customers and partners.

Together, these initiatives will provide the foundation for a thriving local economy, creating jobs, supporting entrepreneurs and ensuring Leicester remains a great place to do business!

News

Shivani Raja MP attends the opening of a new Hot Potato Shop

The Hot Potato Shop has rightfully earned its spot as one of Leicester’s most iconic eateries.Their delicious British potatoes, topped with Leicester masala and spices, are a real favourite! It is fantastic to see this local business grow from the Golden Mile to Fosse Park.Congratulations to Bh

Shivani Raja MP visits Padelaire

I had a great time visiting Padelaire on Barkby Lane and meeting Zishan, Imran and the team. It was really inspiring to hear their passion, their ideas and their exciting plans for the future.

I’m looking forward to seeing what comes next - watch this space! 

Shivani Raja MP opens Patel Brothers Superstore

A morning of celebration recently at the official opening of Patel Brothers Superstores on Yorkshire Road!Our local businesses are at the heart of our local economy and our community - so please do stop by and keep supporting our local businesse

Shivani Raja MP visits Rascal Ranch

Some Sunday fun at Rascal Ranch with my favourite little rascal. He had a brilliant time exploring, climbing and causing mischief - and I got a rare chance to sit down for five minutes! 

Shivani Raja MP celebrates 30 years of Mirch Masala

30 years of Mirch Masala!A true Leicester icon, Mirch Masala has been at the heart of our community for three decades, serving incredible vegetarian food and welcoming generations of families through its doors.Amazing to be able celebrate this special milestone with the team, family, friends and man

Shivani Raja MP submits a Written Parliamentary Question on manufacturing

With monthly manufacturing output declining in the UK, it’s essential that our Government supports manufacturing businesses wherever possible.Manufacturing is a vital industry, and I will continue to push the Government to ensure it is supported both in Leicester and across the UK.

Shivani Raja MP joins Small Business Roundtable

This Small Business Week, it was great to have the chance to speak to local businesses about unlocking potential across our city and our nation alongside my colleagues, Kevin Hollinrake MP, Neil O’Brien MP, Alberto Costa MP and Baroness Verma.Our city has so much to offer, which is why I’ll keep pus

Shivani Raja MP visits Quality Superstore

I’m so proud of all the amazing businesses we have across our city, and it’s always lovely to stop into shops like Quality Superstore and meet the entrepreneurs keeping our streets so lively! Thank you for all you do!