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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Launchpad Southend
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DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260123T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260123T130000
DTSTAMP:20260109T100847Z
CREATED:20260109T100847Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T100847Z
UID:1694-1769162400-1769173200@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Workshop 4: AI in Tendering – Practical\, Compliant & Competitive Use
DESCRIPTION:This workshop helps micro and small businesses understand how to use AI safely\, ethically\, and effectively in their tendering process \n\n\n\n\nOverview\nAI is transforming how businesses approach public sector bidding. This two-hour workshop helps micro and small businesses understand how to use AI safely\, ethically\, and effectively in their tendering process. \nWhat You’ll Learn \n\nUK public sector guidance on AI in procurement\nHow AI can support drafting\, compliance checks\, and idea generation\nRisks and red flags to avoid\nA four-step framework for integrating AI into your bid process\n\nOutcomes \n\nA buyer-aligned approach to using AI in tendering\nImproved efficiency without compromising quality\nConfidence in ethical AI use\nA smarter\, more competitive bid strategy\n\nDelivery\nThis workshop is hosted by Launchpad Southend and delivered by BIZphit LLP. It is fully funded by Southend-on-Sea City Council and Rochford District Council.
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/workshop-4-ai-in-tendering-practical-compliant-competitive-use/
LOCATION:Launchpad Southend\, Launchpad Airport Business Park\, Rochford\, SS4 1YH
CATEGORIES:AI,Learning and development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/image.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260212T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260212T120000
DTSTAMP:20260202T132625Z
CREATED:20260202T132358Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260202T132625Z
UID:1738-1770894000-1770897600@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Unlock Productivity with Microsoft 365 Copilot
DESCRIPTION:Ready to transform the way you work? \nJoin us for an interactive one-hour webinar with Angela Pawar\, Microsoft Copilot Specialist at Giacom\, and Ken Strettle from KVS 365\, a Microsoft 365 consultancy that helps small businesses adopt Copilot and Microsoft 365 securely and with confidence. In this webinar you will discover how AI can simplify your day-to-day tasks and boost productivity across your organisation. \nAngela will break down what Microsoft 365 Copilot is\, show you real-world demonstrations in Outlook\, Teams\, Word\, Excel\, and more\, and guide you through customization options with Copilot Studio. You’ll also learn the technical requirements for Copilot\, proven adoption strategies\, and where to find resources for continued learning. \nWhether you’re exploring Copilot for the first time or looking to maximise its potential\, this session will give you practical insights and confidence to take the next step. \nKey Takeaways \nBy the end of this webinar\, you will: \n✅ Understand what Microsoft 365 Copilot is and how it works \n✅ See demonstrations of Copilot in action across key apps \n✅ Learn how to customize Copilot and leverage Copilot Studio \n✅ Know the requirements for successful deployment \n✅ Discover strategies to drive adoption and user engagement \n✅ Access resources for ongoing learning and support \nThis webinar is hosted by the Federation of Small Businesses in partnership with KVS 365 and Giacom. \nAbout KVS 365 \nKVS 365 is a UK-based Microsoft 365 consultancy that helps small businesses without in-house IT teams get set up securely\, stay productive\, and meet the basics of Cyber Essentials using Microsoft 365 Business Premium. We focus on clear\, practical guidance rather than jargon\, so owners can get more value from the tools they already pay for. \nImportant Notice: \nPlease be advised that bookings will close 70 minutes prior to the event start time to allow sufficient time for customer service support. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation. \nEvent contact \nFor help and support regarding this event\, please telephone our dedicated events helpline 01253 336028 or email csdeventsupport@fsb.org.uk
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/unlock-productivity-with-microsoft-365-copilot/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:AI,Online Event
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/copilot.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260709T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260709T130000
DTSTAMP:20260626T083800Z
CREATED:20260626T083325Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260626T083800Z
UID:2020-1783598400-1783602000@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Fully Funded AI Webinar with Chib Nwokonkor\, CEO of Zanshuri Ltd
DESCRIPTION:SEATS is excited to announce an upcoming fully funded AI webinar\, hosted by Chib Nwokonkor\, CEO of Zanshuri Ltd. \nAs artificial intelligence continues to transform industries and reshape how organisations operate\, understanding how to use AI effectively has never been more important. This practical webinar is designed to help professionals explore how AI can improve productivity\, streamline operations\, and create opportunities for innovation. \nWebinar Details \nDate: Thursday 9th July\nTime: 12:00 PM \nFormat: Online Webinar\nCost: Fully Funded – Free to Attend \nWhat You’ll Learn \nAttendees will gain practical insights into: \n\nUsing AI for automation and process improvement\nUnderstanding AI agents and how they work\nExploring AI tools for software development\nReal-world AI applications across organisations and sectors\n\nWho Should Attend? \nThis webinar is ideal for: \nProfessionals interested in using AI for automation\nIndividuals looking to understand AI agents and emerging technologies\nThose interested in AI applications within software development\nProfessionals working across public sector organisations\, private businesses\, and local government \nWhether you are completely new to AI or looking to deepen your understanding\, this webinar will provide actionable insights and practical examples that can support your organisation’s growth and innovation journey. \nRegister now to secure your SEAT
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/fully-funded-ai-webinar-with-chib-nwokonkor-ceo-of-zanshuri-ltd/
LOCATION:Webinar
CATEGORIES:AI
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/06/Chib-webinar.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20260728T110000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20260728T120000
DTSTAMP:20260716T130916Z
CREATED:20260716T130916Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260716T130916Z
UID:2068-1785236400-1785240000@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Making AI work for your small business: Turning opportunity into action
DESCRIPTION:Making AI work for your small business: Turning opportunity into action (with Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP) \nAI is starting to change how small businesses run and grow\, but many owners are still unsure how to get the most from it. \nConcerns about cost\, trust and risk remain common and are stopping some businesses from embracing AI. \nWork by the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) points to a clear trust gap that could put a £42bn opportunity at risk for UK small firms. This session brings together practical examples and policy insights to help you decide what AI could bring to your business. \nJoin Rishi Sunak and FSB for a focused discussion on how AI is being used in practice and what we can learn from those who have adopted it most successfully. \nWhy attend \n• See how small businesses are using AI in real situations \n• Understand the main barriers identified in recent FSB work \n• Hear Rishi Sunak’s views on supporting AI adoption \n• Ask questions during the live Q&A \nWhat will be covered \n• Introduction: Why AI matters now \n• FSB’s new report on AI adoption: Key takeaways for small business owners \n• Rishi Sunak in conversation with small businesses: Practical experiences and challenges \n• Live Q&A: Questions from attendees \n• Closing remarks: Key takeaways
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/making-ai-work-for-your-small-business-turning-opportunity-into-action/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:AI,Learning and development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/MCLBWZHSIQJNBKJBZUSMFWRQ4Y7I.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261013T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261013T120000
DTSTAMP:20260814T101258Z
CREATED:20260814T101258Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T101258Z
UID:2097-1791885600-1791892800@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:In Person: Adapt Digital – Streamlining & Improving Your Business
DESCRIPTION:art of the Adopt\, Adapt\, Grow Through Digital collection\n\nArise Harlow Innovation HubHarlow\, England\nTuesday\, October 13  •  10 AM – 12 PM\n\n\n\nOverview\n\n\n\n\nDiscover how AI can streamline your business\, boost efficiency and help you work smarter for future growth. \n\n\n\n\nRunning a growing business often means juggling multiple priorities\, managing competing demands and looking for ways to work more efficiently without compromising on quality or customer service. \nWith AI and digital technologies evolving at an incredible pace\, businesses have more opportunities than ever to streamline processes\, improve productivity and make better-informed decisions. But with so many tools available\, knowing where to start can be a challenge. \nJoin Ambitious Essex and James Howard\, Managing Director of Kyte IT\, for an insightful workshop exploring the future of AI\, the current digital landscape and how businesses can use technology to improve the way they operate. \nJames works with businesses across Essex to help them embrace technology\, improve cyber resilience and make the most of digital solutions. In this interactive session\, he’ll explore how AI is rapidly changing the way businesses work\, where these tools fit into everyday business processes\, and what the future could look like. He’ll also share practical examples of how AI can help identify inefficiencies\, streamline operations and free up valuable time\, allowing business owners to focus on growing their business. \nWe are delighted to be delivering this workshop in partnership with ARU Arise Innovation Hubs\, Oxford Innovation\, Launchpad\, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)\, Made Smarter and Connected Innovation. \nWith representatives from all of our partners in the room\, this is more than just a workshop. It’s an opportunity to connect with organisations that can support your business growth\, access specialist expertise\, explore innovation opportunities and build valuable relationships with fellow Essex business owners. \nIf you’re looking to understand how AI and digital technology can help your business become more efficient\, improve day-to-day operations and prepare for the future\, this is an event not to be missed. \nPlease note: This is a three-part series\, but you’re welcome to attend just one\, two or all three sessions. Simply choose the workshop(s) that best suit your business and where you are on your growth journey. \nDuring the workshop we’ll explore:\n✅ The current AI landscape and what it means for businesses\n✅ How AI is changing business processes and the future of work\n✅ Identifying inefficiencies and opportunities to improve the way your business operates\n✅ Using AI and digital tools to streamline everyday tasks and increase productivity\n✅ Practical examples of how businesses are successfully adopting AI\n✅ Key considerations when introducing AI into your business \nWho is this workshop for?\nThis session is perfect for business owners and leaders who are: \n\nLooking to improve efficiency and productivity\nInterested in understanding how AI can support their business\nCurious about the future of AI and digital technologies\nLooking for practical ways to streamline operations\nWanting to save time and focus on growing their business\n\nWhat to expect\n✔ A practical presentation from James Howard\, Kyte IT\n✔ Live Q&A with Ambitious Essex\, James\, ARU Innovation Hub\, Connected Innovation\, Oxford Innovation and the FSB\n✔ Informal networking with other Essex business owners\n✔ Practical ideas and insights you can take away and apply to your business \nWhether you’re just beginning to explore AI or you’re looking to build on your existing digital journey\, this workshop will provide practical insights\, expert guidance and real-world examples to help you work smarter\, streamline your business and prepare for what’s next. \nPlease note: This course is funded specifically for Essex-based businesses. If your business is located outside of Essex\, unfortunately you will not be eligible to attend and your ticket will be refunded.
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/in-person-adapt-digital-streamlining-improving-your-business/
LOCATION:Arise Harlow Innovation Hub\, Maypole Blvd\, Harlow\, Essex\, CM17 9TX
CATEGORIES:AI,Learning and development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/adapt-digital-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261013T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261013T120000
DTSTAMP:20260814T101636Z
CREATED:20260814T101636Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T101636Z
UID:2100-1791885600-1791892800@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Online: Adapt Digital – Streamlining & Improving Your Business
DESCRIPTION:Part of the Adopt\, Adapt\, Grow Through Digital collection\n\nOnline event \nTuesday\, October 13  •  10 AM – 12 PM GMT+1\n\n\n\nOverview\n\n\n\n\nDiscover how AI can streamline your business\, boost efficiency and help you work smarter for future growth. \n\n\n\n\nRunning a growing business often means juggling multiple priorities\, managing competing demands and looking for ways to work more efficiently without compromising on quality or customer service. \nWith AI and digital technologies evolving at an incredible pace\, businesses have more opportunities than ever to streamline processes\, improve productivity and make better-informed decisions. But with so many tools available\, knowing where to start can be a challenge. \nJoin Ambitious Essex and James Howard\, Managing Director of Kyte IT\, for an insightful workshop exploring the future of AI\, the current digital landscape and how businesses can use technology to improve the way they operate. \nJames works with businesses across Essex to help them embrace technology\, improve cyber resilience and make the most of digital solutions. In this interactive session\, he’ll explore how AI is rapidly changing the way businesses work\, where these tools fit into everyday business processes\, and what the future could look like. He’ll also share practical examples of how AI can help identify inefficiencies\, streamline operations and free up valuable time\, allowing business owners to focus on growing their business. \nWe are delighted to be delivering this workshop in partnership with ARU Arise Innovation Hubs\, Oxford Innovation\, Launchpad\, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)\, Made Smarter and Connected Innovation. \nWith representatives from all of our partners in the room\, this is more than just a workshop. It’s an opportunity to connect with organisations that can support your business growth\, access specialist expertise\, explore innovation opportunities and build valuable relationships with fellow Essex business owners. \nIf you’re looking to understand how AI and digital technology can help your business become more efficient\, improve day-to-day operations and prepare for the future\, this is an event not to be missed. \nPlease note: This is a three-part series\, but you’re welcome to attend just one\, two or all three sessions. Simply choose the workshop(s) that best suit your business and where you are on your growth journey. \nDuring the workshop we’ll explore:\n✅ The current AI landscape and what it means for businesses\n✅ How AI is changing business processes and the future of work\n✅ Identifying inefficiencies and opportunities to improve the way your business operates\n✅ Using AI and digital tools to streamline everyday tasks and increase productivity\n✅ Practical examples of how businesses are successfully adopting AI\n✅ Key considerations when introducing AI into your business \nWho is this workshop for?\nThis session is perfect for business owners and leaders who are: \n\nLooking to improve efficiency and productivity\nInterested in understanding how AI can support their business\nCurious about the future of AI and digital technologies\nLooking for practical ways to streamline operations\nWanting to save time and focus on growing their business\n\nWhat to expect\n✔ A practical presentation from James Howard\, Kyte IT\n✔ Live Q&A with Ambitious Essex\, James\, ARU Innovation Hub\, Connected Innovation\, Oxford Innovation and the FSB\n✔ Informal networking with other Essex business owners\n✔ Practical ideas and insights you can take away and apply to your business \nWhether you’re just beginning to explore AI or you’re looking to build on your existing digital journey\, this workshop will provide practical insights\, expert guidance and real-world examples to help you work smarter\, streamline your business and prepare for what’s next. \nPlease note: This course is funded specifically for Essex-based businesses. If your business is located outside of Essex\, unfortunately you will not be eligible to attend and your ticket will be refunded.
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/online-adapt-digital-streamlining-improving-your-business/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:AI,Learning and development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/adapt-digital-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261019T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261019T120000
DTSTAMP:20260814T103735Z
CREATED:20260814T103735Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T103735Z
UID:2103-1792404000-1792411200@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Online: Grow with Digital – Scaling & Future-Proofing Your Business
DESCRIPTION:Online event \nThursday\, November 19  •  10 AM – 12 PM GMT\n\n\n\nOverview\n\n\n\n\nDiscover how AI can streamline your business\, boost efficiency and help you work smarter for future growth. \n\n\n\n\nGrowing a successful business isn’t just about working harder – it’s about building the right systems\, developing strong leadership and using technology strategically to create sustainable growth. \nIf you’ve already started embracing digital tools\, AI or automation\, what’s next? How can you use these technologies to scale your business\, empower your team and unlock new opportunities without losing the personal touch that makes your business unique? \nWe’re delighted to welcome David Bell\, Founder of Simboc\, as our guest speaker. David has successfully built and grown multiple businesses and is an experienced expert in using technology\, AI\, automation and systemisation to help businesses scale effectively. During the session\, David will share practical strategies for growing through technology while ensuring the human element of your business (your relationships\, customer experience and company values) remains at the heart of everything you do. \nWe are delighted to be delivering this workshop in partnership with Launchpad\, ARU Arise Innovation Hubs\, Oxford Innovation\, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)\, Made Smarter and Connected Innovation. \nIf you’re looking to move beyond simply adopting digital tools and start using them strategically to grow your business\, this is an event not to be missed. \nPlease note: This is a three-part series\, but you’re welcome to attend just one\, two or all three sessions. Simply choose the workshop(s) that best suit your business and where you are on your growth journey. \nDuring the workshop we’ll explore:\n✅ How AI\, automation and digital technology can support sustainable business growth\n✅ Practical ways to systemise your business without losing the human touch\n✅ Building systems and processes that enable your business to scale\n✅ Developing leadership skills to confidently lead a growing business\n✅ Using technology to improve customer experience\, productivity and business performance\n✅ Real-world examples of businesses successfully growing through digital transformation \nWho is this workshop for?\nThis session is perfect for business owners and leaders who are: \n\nLooking to scale and grow their business\nAlready using\, or beginning to use\, AI and digital tools\nWanting to improve leadership and business performance\nLooking to create systems that support sustainable growth\nInterested in innovation and future-proofing their business\n\nWhat to expect\n✔ An inspiring and practical presentation from David Bell\n✔ Live Q&A with Ambitious Essex\, Launchpad Southend\, ARU Arise\, Connected Innovation\, Oxford Innovation and the FSB\n✔ Practical ideas and strategies you can implement immediately \nWhether you’re looking to strengthen your leadership\, make better use of AI or build systems that allow your business to grow sustainably\, this workshop will provide practical guidance\, expert insight and valuable connections to help you take your next step with confidence. \nPlease note: This course is funded specifically for Essex-based businesses. If your business is located outside of Essex\, unfortunately you will not be eligible to attend and your ticket will be refunded.
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/online-grow-with-digital-scaling-future-proofing-your-business/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:AI,Learning and development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/grow-with-digital-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20261119T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20261119T120000
DTSTAMP:20260814T102049Z
CREATED:20260814T102049Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260814T102049Z
UID:2101-1795082400-1795089600@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:In Person: Grow with Digital – Scaling & Future-Proofing Your Business
DESCRIPTION:Part of the Adopt\, Adapt\, Grow Through Digital collection\n\nLaunchpad SouthendRochford\, England\nThursday\, November 19  •  10 AM – 12 PM\n\n\n\nOverview\n\n\n\n\nDiscover how AI can streamline your business\, boost efficiency and help you work smarter for future growth. \n\n\n\n\nGrowing a successful business isn’t just about working harder – it’s about building the right systems\, developing strong leadership and using technology strategically to create sustainable growth. \nIf you’ve already started embracing digital tools\, AI or automation\, what’s next? How can you use these technologies to scale your business\, empower your team and unlock new opportunities without losing the personal touch that makes your business unique? \nWe’re delighted to welcome David Bell\, Founder of Simboc\, as our guest speaker. David has successfully built and grown multiple businesses and is an experienced expert in using technology\, AI\, automation and systemisation to help businesses scale effectively. During the session\, David will share practical strategies for growing through technology while ensuring the human element of your business (your relationships\, customer experience and company values) remains at the heart of everything you do. \nWe are delighted to be delivering this workshop in partnership with Launchpad\, ARU Arise Innovation Hubs\, Oxford Innovation\, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB)\, Made Smarter and Connected Innovation. \nWith representatives from all of our partners in the room\, this is more than just a workshop. It’s an opportunity to connect with organisations that can support your next stage of growth\, access specialist expertise\, explore innovation opportunities and build valuable relationships with fellow Essex business owners. \nIf you’re looking to move beyond simply adopting digital tools and start using them strategically to grow your business\, this is an event not to be missed. \nPlease note: This is a three-part series\, but you’re welcome to attend just one\, two or all three sessions. Simply choose the workshop(s) that best suit your business and where you are on your growth journey. \nDuring the workshop we’ll explore:\n✅ How AI\, automation and digital technology can support sustainable business growth\n✅ Practical ways to systemise your business without losing the human touch\n✅ Building systems and processes that enable your business to scale\n✅ Developing leadership skills to confidently lead a growing business\n✅ Using technology to improve customer experience\, productivity and business performance\n✅ Real-world examples of businesses successfully growing through digital transformation \nWho is this workshop for?\nThis session is perfect for business owners and leaders who are: \n\nLooking to scale and grow their business\nAlready using\, or beginning to use\, AI and digital tools\nWanting to improve leadership and business performance\nLooking to create systems that support sustainable growth\nInterested in innovation and future-proofing their business\n\nWhat to expect\n✔ An inspiring and practical presentation from David Bell\n✔ Live Q&A with Ambitious Essex\, Launchpad Southend\, ARU Arise\, Connected Innovation\, Oxford Innovation and the FSB\n✔ Informal networking with other Essex business owners\n✔ Practical ideas and strategies you can implement immediately \nWhether you’re looking to strengthen your leadership\, make better use of AI or build systems that allow your business to grow sustainably\, this workshop will provide practical guidance\, expert insight and valuable connections to help you take your next step with confidence. \nPlease note: This course is funded specifically for Essex-based businesses. If your business is located outside of Essex\, unfortunately you will not be eligible to attend and your ticket will be refunded.
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/in-person-grow-with-digital-scaling-future-proofing-your-business/
LOCATION:Launchpad Southend\, Launchpad Airport Business Park\, Rochford\, SS4 1YH
CATEGORIES:AI,Learning and development
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/grow-with-digital.jpg
END:VEVENT
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