Ananova :

The Department of Trade and Industry has launched an online service to help e-entrepreneurs.

Beyond Bricks is part of the of the DTI's £5.5 million initiative to foster e-commerce in the UK.

The scheme aims to turn entrepreneurs's ideas into internet success stories.

Beyond Bricks will offer advice on business plans and legal and financial issues.

It will also feature news feeds from the venture capital and private equity world.

The portal also features a custom-built community engine, which will allow entrepreneurs throughout the country to network and share experiences.

Funded by the DTI, the project is operated by the Metrodome consortium of industry experts, chosen for their market knowledge, regional contacts and expertise, and led by serial e-entrepreneur Charlie Hoult.

Mr Hoult said: "The end of the dotcom goldrush has opened up a huge opportunity in the global knowledge economy.

"There can be no doubt that the UK has the resources of talent to exploit this opportunity, and Beyond Bricks will be crucial in helping to mobilise this talent."

Story filed: 14:13 Thursday 27th September 2001

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