Google has launched a year-long campaign aiming to encourage more Welsh businesses to get online, as figures show around 40% of small firms have no website.
The internet giant said 33% of businesses in Wales have access to sell goods and services online compared to the UK average of 39%.
Welsh business owners will gather in Cardiff to join Google in launching the year-long campaign – in partnership with the Welsh Government – to help boost the online economy in Wales.
Google’s events and workshops have been designed to support and advise businesses regardless of their technical expertise – from starting out and creating their first website, through to improving an existing website and online marketing.
Business Minister Edwina Hart said the Welsh government was working with the internet company to help small businesses “access new markets”.
Hart and Dan Cobley, Google UK managing director, are both due to address 400 delegates at the first free conference and launch event at the Coal Exchange on Tuesday at 17:00 GMT.
Cobley said: “Together with the Welsh government and other partners we want Welsh businesses of all sizes to understand the importance of the internet and how easy it is to get online and contribute to the economic growth of the Welsh economy.”
The Cardiff event will be followed by others in Bridgend, Merthyr Tydfil, Newport, Swansea and Wrexham.
Other partners involved include the Institute of Directors in Wales and South Wales Chamber of Commerce.
