Festival Programme

Gates open for visitors

Be one of the first 500 visitors to receive your FREE Goody Bag.
Head to the Sports Bar in the Grandstand for the official opening of the Festival!
 

Festival of Business officially opens

Join us in the Sports Bar for the launch of our speaker programme, hosted by Eric Dixon -presenter, voiceover artist, journalist and media consultant.

Read more about our Host
 

Welcome from Denise Rossiter, CEO Essex Chambers of Commerce

Hear from our first speaker of the day, CEO of the Essex Chambers of Commerce - Denise Rossiter.  

Read more about our Speaker
 

Welcome from our Main Sponsors - Ambitious Essex

We welcome Councillor Louise McKinlay, the Deputy Leader of Essex County Council and Cabinet Member for Communities, Economic Growth and Prosperity. 

Read more about our Speaker
 

Digital Essex Drop-in Clinic

Digital Essex wants to make sure that no person or business misses out on digital opportunities.

Find out more
 

Festival Exhibition

Hit the stands and start connecting with our Exhibitors! The exhibition is located in the Summer Marquee and Outside space. 

View our Exhibitors
 

Workshop - Procurement and Bid Strategy

This workshop is designed to help businesses bid better, navigate procurement regulation changes, and overcome key challenges in public sector bidding.

Find out more
 

Best in Business Award Judging

Our 3 finalists for the first Best in Business Award will be presenting to our esteemed panel of judges.

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Climate Action Team Drop-in Clinic

Discover how your business can play a role in tackling climate change while saving money and building resilience.

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Devolution in Essex: What It Means for Business - Panel Discussion

This discussion explores how devolution can empower Essex businesses - unlocking local potential, driving infrastructure and skills, amplifying their voice in decision-making, and shaping a future economy that works for enterprise.

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Greater Essex Careers Hub Drop-in Clinic

The Greater Essex Careers Hub work to ensure every young person receives outstanding, relevant careers education throughout their time at school and college.

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Headline Speaker: George Clarke

Join us to hear from architect, designer, broadcaster, author, and passionate campaigner, George Clarke. One of Britain’s most recognisable TV presenters, fronting hit shows like Amazing Spaces while using his platform to champion better housing and revitalise communities.

View George Clarke's Profile
 

Best in Business Award Winner Announced!

Who will the winner be? Join us to find out who will be presented with the 2025 Best in Business Award and £2,500 prize money.
 

What is the Essex Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP)

Hear from our Essex LSIP Executive Director, Joanne Giles, and discover the work that has been undertaken to improve the delivery of required skills to businesses.

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King's Award Drop-in Clinic

The King’s Award for Enterprise is the UK’s most prestigious business accolade, discover how your business can apply to gain national recognition.

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Workshop - Procurement and Bid Strategy

This workshop is designed to help businesses bid better, navigate procurement regulation changes, and overcome key challenges in public sector bidding.

Find out more
 

Fostering Friendly Team

The Fostering Team invites local employers to explore how fostering can work alongside your business.

Find out more
 

Visitors Prize Draw Winners Announced!

Will you be a winner? Join us in the Summer Marquee to hear the draw and, if you are a lucky winner, collect your prize!

Find out more
 

Festival of Business Closes