Good Business Pathfinder Launched to Support Cornwall Companies

Cornwall Council and its partners have launched a new online resource designed to help businesses stay ahead during some of the toughest economic conditions in years.

The Good Business Pathfinder, available now at https://ciosgoodbusiness.co.uk/, went live on 19th November.

A Free Tool for All Cornwall Businesses

Created in partnership with Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses and the CIoS Growth Hub, the platform is free to use and open to everyone from freelancers to large organisations.

It aims to support businesses facing labour shortages, climate pressures and rising costs by offering practical tools and guidance to stay competitive, resilient and responsible.

Councillor Tim Dwelly, Cabinet Member for Economic Regeneration and Investment, said:
“Supporting businesses to create a resilient economy with good jobs and fair opportunities is a core priority for Cornwall Council.
The Good Business Pathfinder has been set up to help give organisations the tools they need to take practical steps towards making small changes that add up to big progress when it comes to looking after their people, their profits and the planet.”

Seven Key Areas of Responsible Business

The Pathfinder focuses on seven core themes:

• Good pay, working hours and contracts

• Workforce opportunities

• Health and wellbeing

• Equality, diversity and inclusion

• Environmental responsibility

• Responsible sourcing

• Digital integration

The principles reflect changing expectations around supply chains, recruitment, customer loyalty and funding. Adopting them can help unlock investment, win new contracts and build reputation.

Guidance Backed by Real Experience

John Brown, CEO of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, said:
“Good business isn’t about choosing between profit and purpose. It’s about recognising that doing the right thing for people and the planet is the smart thing for the bottom line.
The Good Business Pathfinder strips away the jargon and gets practical applicable advice into the hands of leaders, helping businesses take small, effective steps that make commercial, environmental, and social sense. It’s not theory, it’s lived experience, guided by real business leaders across sectors who know the daily pressures and opportunities.”

The platform also includes case studies and a collaborative space where businesses can share progress.

A Role in National Work on Employment and Inclusion

Cornwall Council was recently named a Vanguard in the Government’s Keep Britain Working programme, the only rural area selected. The Pathfinder will be used to help connect employers to this work, which focuses on workplace health and inclusion.

Support From Business Organisations

Ann Vandermeulen, FSB Regional Business and Stakeholder Manager for the South West, said
“We really like this helpful initiative, and we hope that businesses will explore all that the Good Business Pathfinder has to offer. The convenience of being able to just tap into a mine of useful information and signposting, as needed, makes this just the kind of flexible, user friendly business support that businesses are looking for.”

Kirsty Miles Musgrave from the Growth Hub said
“Being a ‘good’ business isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s a smart commercial strategy. Customers, clients and employees are increasingly choosing businesses that reflect their values, whether that’s fair employment, sustainability, or inclusivity.
The Good Business Pathfinder is a great way to further that journey, and the Growth Hub is here to help businesses build on that with tailored support that drives growth, reputation, and long term success.”