Inaugural conference targets SME growth

A Warwickshire business conference is set to bring together entrepreneurs and growing firms next month to share ideas, build connections and unlock new opportunities for growth.

The inaugural Stratford Business Conference will take place in February, hosted by Stratford-on-Avon District Council in partnership with the Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub Group. 

The free event is designed to support small and medium-sized businesses across the Stratford District by combining practical advice with real-world case studies and networking.

Taking place at the Crowne Plaza Stratford-upon-Avon on Tuesday, February 3, the morning conference will run from 8.15am to noon and will be hosted by Sandra Godley OBE, the newly appointed president of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.

The programme will feature a series of talks from business leaders, focusing on growth, resilience and future planning. 

Will Grocett and Eve Baker from Green Tech Industries will share insights from their business growth journey, while Stratford-on-Avon District Council and the Growth Hub will outline how local business support can play a transformative role in scaling and strengthening companies.

Access to finance will also be a key theme, with Tracey Sherratt from the British Business Bank discussing how firms can prepare themselves to attract investment. 

Meanwhile, Charlene Mitchell and Simon Hood from digital storytelling platform Sooper Books will share how the business grew from its early days at Venture House Business Centre in Stratford-upon-Avon to millions of users and a high-profile appearance on Dragons’ Den.

Skills and recruitment challenges will be addressed by Fay Winterburn from Warwickshire Skills Hub, who will also take part in a panel discussion alongside local business leaders and councillors, including councillor George Cowcher, deputy leader and portfolio holder for planning and economic development, and John Careford, head of development, both from Stratford-on-Avon District Council.

Organisers say the event aims to leave attendees inspired, informed and better connected as they plan for future growth.

Councillor Cowcher said: “We want the Stratford Business Conference to highlight the successes of the many and varied SMEs based here and their vital role in driving economic growth across Stratford-on-Avon District.

“This will be a fantastic opportunity to connect leaders, entrepreneurs, and future business professionals to explore key economic drivers, growth opportunities, and skills development which is vital in supporting our local economy and to encourage a more inclusive, greener economy.

“We also want to promote career pathways and government support to address skills shortages and inspire the next generation to engage with SME opportunities because there are so many innovative SMEs within our area and we want to encourage people to live and work here.”

Craig Humphrey, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Growth Hub Group, added: “A brilliant array of speakers has been lined up and we want delegates to leave the Stratford Business Conference feeling inspired and motivated by what others have achieved.

“This is a great event to find out more about the business support network in the area and that further assistance is available as well as to make new connections with potential customers, suppliers, collaborators and support providers.”

There will also be around 20 exhibitors showcasing Stratford District’s innovative businesses. 

SMEs who would like to promote innovative products or services should contact economy@stratford-dc.gov.uk to express their interest in participating.

To sign-up to attend the Stratford Business Conference, see here.

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