Who Do You Need
Each TestTown event is unique -this is as much down to the people involved as the physical space they are hosted in. The unifying factor all of these people have in common is the passion for their place. You will need the following:
The Host Partnership– TestTown events have been hosted by a variety of organisations including local authorities, BIDs, education providers, trader’s associations, housing associations, private businesses and retail centres.
A Dedicated TestTownCo-ordinator– A natural multi-tasker who can hold all the different strands together.
Emerging Town Centre Entrepreneurs-The people with the ideas! Hosts need to put careful thought into the recruitment process. However, Testtown events should also be instigated by these young businesses themselves- this guide allows you to see who and what you need on-board.
People Who Own Spaces-All town centre landowners should beconsidered –retail, civic, public, private and green space.
Judges- ATestTown event does not need to be run as a competition but we have found that the participants appreciate this element of it. A quality judging panel plays a big part in the management of this process.
Mentors and Business Advisors- Support andmentoring is crucial to help the participators implement their ‘pop-up’ businesses.
Sponsors – Usingsponsorship and in-kind support from private business can enhance the event and the experience of the participants.
Mystery Shoppers– Used on the trading days they can assist with the judging decisions and offer constructive feedback to the participants.
TestTown Ambassadors- think about usingyour local young volunteers to help with the event.
