THE East Lancashire-based Asian Business Federation, launched early this year, already has around 250 members. Working with Business Link, the federation is making major impact within the local Asian community.

"In the past Asian business people have not been aware of, or receptive to, the business support and advice that is available," said Shufkat Razaq, Asian Business Federation business development adviser. "Now, however, with the formation of the federation and the support it has from leaders within the local Asian community, central government and Business Link, we are beginning to see businesses grow and integrate."

The federation, with its own local board, is funded by central government and managed through Business Link. Membership - which is open to non-Asian business people as well as those from the Asian community - is growing. Offices are at Red Rose Court, Clayton-le-Moors, where there are three staff plus two Asian business development advisers operating as outreach workers within the local Asian community.

Among key tasks are to promote the services that are available through Business Link and other business support organisations across East Lancashire.

Also, to promote entrepreneurship within the Asian community and business integration.

"We want to see Asian businesses grow as part of the whole economy and not just within the Asian community boundaries," said Shufkat.

"With the diversity of business talents and skills that lie within the Asian community, there is no reason why these businesses shouldn't become among the most successful in the region, reflecting positively the multicultural make-up of local society."

The Asian Business Federation offers a range of services to its members. These include networking opportunities with other ABF members, entry in a members' directory, bulk buying opportunities and discounts on services such as gas, electric and phones.

The federation also provides a central database and sign-posting service with access to business support, consultancy, workshops and training. "Our overriding aim is to see Asian businesses grow and prosper within East Lancashire, making a full and rewarding contribution to the local economy," said Shufkat. Asian businesspeople, or those of non-Asian heritage who seek to work closely with the Asian community, can find out more by phoning the Asian Business Federation on 01254 879147.

CASE STUDY1: Plumb role for Arshad

MOHAMMED Arshad is aiming to grow his Nelson-based business with the help of the Asian Business Federation and Business Link.

He runs Star Electrical and Plumbing Supplies in Manchester Road and on e of his first actions after joining the Federation was to take part in an 'Action for Business' course.

Run by Kingfisher on behalf of Business Link, the course helps new business people develop their business skills and plan their business future. "I had no idea what to do or who to ask, until the Asian Business Federation came on the scene," said Arshad.

"Now, I have a website created with Business Link assistance. I am also attending the 'Action for Business' development course for small businesses and making plans for expansion of my business."

The shop, which supplies public and trade, is still in its first year. But, already Arshad has expanded to sell plumbing materials over the internet. He is now planning to introduce a maintenance service.

"I've received the business knowledge and gained the confidence to know how to maximise the opportunities that exist and expand my business," said Arshad.

CASE STUDY 2: Baking things bigger - with help from the ABF

ONE of the Asian Business Federation's first - and most successful - members is the Tayyabah Bakery in Blackburn.

Here around twenty people, both full and part-time, work making and baking savouries, snacks, biscuits, pastries and traditional naan breads, for sale in the shop in Higher Eanam and delivery around the country.

"We supply the Asian communities in most of Britain's major towns and cities," said boss Irfan Patel. Now, however, following the creation of the Asian Business Federation, the Tayyabah Bakery is on the threshold of a major business breakthrough.

Working with East Lancashire Chamber of Commerce and the Federation, the bakery has been shortlisted as a potential supplier to the Somerfield supermarket chain.

"This would see us fully integrated within the business community as a whole, supplying one of the country's leading grocery outlets," said Irfan. Overall business growth already means the bakery is set to expand. Plans are being made for the creation of a new purpose-built bakery on Philips Road, Blackburn, where more staff would be employed. This follows assistance from Business Link including enterprise grant assistance for new machinery and relocation plus advise on business development and new packaging.

"My father took over the bakery here in Eanam Wharf over twenty years ago. Now, we have our own website created with assistance from Business Link, supply customers all around the country, are set to sign a new national contract and build a new bakery," said Irfan. "The creation of the Asian Business Federation offers us further opportunity to develop and grow our business creating more jobs and adding income to the East Lancashire economy."