Launchpad Southend

From idea to clarity: Define what your business stands for
2026-05-11 12:00 - 12:30 UTC | Online
Learn to use Canva to brainstorm ideas, organise and shape your brand visually and strategically.

This is the first session in a week-long series of free webinars from Enterprise Nation and Canva, created to help small business founders sharpen their marketing and build stronger brands.
To stand out as a small business owner or consultant, you need more than a great offer. You need a clear value proposition that shows exactly why you’re the right choice.
In this session, Rob Boliver will help you uncover what truly sets you apart.
You’ll move from a messy brain-dump of ideas to a clear, confident brand identity using a simple, practical process.
You’ll also learn how to use Canva Whiteboards to brainstorm, organise and shape your brand visually and strategically.
By the end, your founder story won’t just be a bio, but a narrative that attracts your ideal audience.
Topics covered in this session

Why branding matters for founders in 2026

How to use Canva to brainstorm, “moodboard” and shape your brand visually

How to develop a founder story and clear niche that feels right for you

About the speaker
Rob Boliver is a Canva Verified Expert, Design Engineer and Technical Artist AI based in Galway, Ireland. With over 585,000 YouTube subscribers and a course platform (UniCanva) with more than 11,000 students, Rob has spent years helping founders, entrepreneurs and small business owners build brands that actually feel like them.
He specialises in making the brand-building process practical and visual, using tools like Canva to help people move from scattered ideas to a clear, confident identity. His work sits at the intersection of design, AI and online business, and he collaborates with global tech companies on AI-driven design experiences.
Rob is known for breaking down complex creative processes into simple, actionable steps that anyone can follow, whether they are just starting out or looking to sharpen a brand they have been building for years.
If you have any questions you’d like Rob to answer during the webinar, please send them to events@enterprisenation.com.
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How to join the online webinar
When you register for the webinar, you’ll receive an automatic email, including the Zoom link to access the event. The event will begin at the time and date stated in the registration information. If you don’t receive the link within two hours of signing up via Eventbrite, please let us know by emailing events@enterprisenation.com. (Note: It may be in your junk folder.)
About Enterprise Nation
Enterprise Nation is the UK’s most active small business network, helping thousands of people turn their good idea into a great business. Join today to get everything you need to start and grow your small business, in one place.

Build a magnetic brand: Turn clarity into marketing assets
2026-05-12 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
Learn how to use Canva to turn your brand positioning into a polished, consistent visual identity.

This is the second session in a week-long series of free webinars from Enterprise Nation and Canva, created to help small business founders sharpen their marketing and build stronger brands.
Today, you don’t need an expensive branding agency or a full-time design team to build a brand that gets attention.
In this session, Sydney Sam will break down the essential visual assets every founder needs, from high-impact imagery to social templates that stop people scrolling.
You’ll learn how to use Canva to turn your brand positioning into a polished, consistent visual identity. From smart templates to a refined brand kit – including your logo, colours, fonts and imagery – you’ll discover how to create content that looks premium, without the premium price tag.
By the end, you’ll be designing “thumb-stopping” content that feels aligned, professional and true to your brand.
Topics covered in this session

How to translate your brand positioning into professional visual assets

Where to start creating polished content in Canva using smart templates and a cohesive brand kit

Practical Canva hacks to achieve a premium aesthetic without the agency price tag

About the speaker
Sydney is a global brand strategist, an entrepreneur and a venture-building advisor with 15 years of experience helping founders across Africa, the UK and the US turn early ideas into revenue engines, iconic brands and resilient teams.
He’s widely regarded for his ability to blend clear strategy, creative execution and founder development into practical systems that accelerate growth.
Sydney supports business founders through one-on-one coaching, accelerator mentorship, venture training and hands-on brand execution through his creative-tech platform Workspace Global.
If you have any questions you’d like Sydney to answer during the webinar, please send them to events@enterprisenation.com.
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How to join the online webinar
When you register for the webinar, you’ll receive an automatic email, including the Zoom link to access the event. The event will begin at the time and date stated in the registration information. If you don’t receive the link within two hours of signing up via Eventbrite, please let us know by emailing events@enterprisenation.com. (Note: It may be in your junk folder.)
About Enterprise Nation
Enterprise Nation is the UK’s most active small business network, helping thousands of people turn their good idea into a great business. Join today to get everything you need to start and grow your small business, in one place.

Mastering Your Website Performance
2026-05-13 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Website Performance is a practical webinar focused on how to assess, diagnose, and improve how well a website performs — from both a technical and SEO perspective.

Join us and our members dotcraft Ltd for this informative session, where they’ll walk you through;

proven ways to surface performance issues (speed, Core Web Vitals, crawlability, indexing, and on-page efficiency)
share a clear framework for prioritising fixes
highlight quick wins that can deliver immediate impact.

You’ll leave with top tips, actionable next steps, and a checklist of improvements to boost user experience, search visibility, and conversions.
Date: Wednesday 13 May 10.00am – 11.00am
Virtual: Zoom Platform
Cost to attend: Free for Members and Non-Members £25.00 + VAT

From idea to impact: Build campaigns that stand out
2026-05-13 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
Learn how to turn your positioning into high-impact marketing that stops the scroll and starts conversations.

This is the third session in a week-long series of free webinars from Enterprise Nation and Canva, created to help small business founders sharpen their marketing and build stronger brands.
In a crowded marketplace, a brand’s strategy is only as strong as its execution. It’s time to move beyond one-off posts that drain your energy and start thinking on a campaign level.
In this session, Martha Keith will show you how to turn your positioning into high-impact marketing that stops the scroll and starts conversations.
You’ll learn how to create cohesive campaigns that work across social, email and even physical touchpoints, so your brand shows up consistently wherever your audience is.
Whether you’re launching a product or a service, you’ll discover how to make your marketing feel less like isolated content and more like a connected experience people will remember.
Topics covered in this session

How to move from one-off posts to 360-degree campaigns that drive results

How to create content that connects across social media and email

A simple framework for designing creative that stops people scrolling and captures attention fast

About the speaker
Martha is the founder and CEO of Martha Brook, a personalised stationery and lifestyle brand that has grown into a global e-commerce success.
She knows first-hand what it takes to build a brand from scratch using digital tools, from design and content creation, to marketing and selling online.
In 2024, she founded Business Secrets Club, a community of 135,000 small business owners, where she shares practical guidance on marketing, strategy and growth.
She is a member of the British Library Advisory Council and an Ambassador for the Business & IP Centre.
If you have any questions you’d like Martha to answer during the webinar, please send them to events@enterprisenation.com.
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How to join the online webinar
When you register for the webinar, you’ll receive an automatic email, including the Zoom link to access the event. The event will begin at the time and date stated in the registration information. If you don’t receive the link within two hours of signing up via Eventbrite, please let us know by emailing events@enterprisenation.com. (Note: It may be in your junk folder.)
About Enterprise Nation
Enterprise Nation is the UK’s most active small business network, helping thousands of people turn their good idea into a great business. Join today to get everything you need to start and grow your small business, in one place.

Your Phone is a Film Studio: Using Short Video to Grow Your Business
2026-05-14 10:00 - 11:00 | online workshop
Your smartphone is more powerful than a camera crew – you just need to know how to use it! In this session, join experts Garry Lee and James Adam, BT and Small Business Britain show you exactly how to create short videos that stop the scroll and turn viewers into customers.

You’ll learn how to:

– Film and edit content that looks polished and professional
– using only your phone
– Know which platforms your videos should be on and how to tailor your content for each one
– Build a simple, repeatable video habit that keeps your business visible and growing.

About Gary and James: James and Garry believe in ruthlessly efficient marketing for small businesses. They don’t like to waste one second or one pound more than is needed. Both have over 20 years’ experience in marketing, brand, data and user experience. They have run businesses that serviced clients like Sainsburys, Skype, JD Sports and JCB, but came together in 2020 to form Thirty Three Percent, with the vision of bringing big brand marketing to small business. They firmly believe that small businesses can not only compete but thrive against the big brands by translating marketing best practice for small business.

About Amy (guest expert from BT) Amy Johnston is a Social Media Manager with 5+ years of experience building and managing social media strategies designed to increase engagement and elevate brand presence. Her approach combines data‑led decision making, creative content planning, and trend awareness to optimise campaigns across Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

About BT Digital Skills: BT Digital Skills is partnering with Small Business Britain to deliver digital skills to small businesses across the UK.

Bootstrapped but beautiful: turn your brand into sales
2026-05-15 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
Explore how to move beyond traditional sales tactics and build a community-first approach to growth that feels authentic and sustainable.

This is the fifth and final session in a week-long series of free webinars from Enterprise Nation and Canva, created to help UK founders sharpen their marketing, build stronger brands, and grow with confidence. Expect practical guidance, fresh ideas, and tools you can put into action straight away.
In this fireside chat, SEO experts Areej AbuAli and Freddie Chatt will discuss founder-led marketing strategies that build trust and drive real conversions. The conversation will explore how to optimise your key digital touchpoints, from your homepage to your checkout flow, so your brand delivers a seamless, high-quality customer experience.
You’ll also discover how to move beyond traditional sales tactics and build a community-first approach to growth that feels authentic, sustainable, and genuinely aligned with your brand.
Topics covered in this session

Learn how to design a customer journey that moves someone from a social post to a confirmed order
Discover practical ways to optimise your website or product pages to reduce friction and increase value
Understand how to grow your revenue while maintaining a strong, personal brand

About the speakers
Areej AbuAli is the founder of Women in Tech SEO, a global community for marketers working at the intersection of marketing and technology. Since launching in 2019, the community has grown to over 12,000 members and 60,000 followers worldwide, connecting professionals through online groups, mentorship programmes, and conferences across the UK, Europe, and the USA. Based in London, Areej is an international speaker, a Google Women Techmakers Ambassador, a UN Women UK Delegate, and the author of Community Building for Marketers.
Freddie Chatt is an e-commerce SEO consultant with over 10 years of experience in SEO, including five years at Amara, building its SEO channel to over £10 million in annual revenue. Since going freelance in 2020, Freddie has helped online stores grow through search and writing the e-commerce SEO newsletter Search to Sale, which is trusted by SEOs at Lego, Gymshark, Target, Adidas and more.
If you have any questions you’d like Areej and Freddie to answer during the webinar, please send them to events@enterprisenation.com.
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How to join the online webinar
When you register for the webinar, you’ll receive an automatic email, including the Zoom link to access the event. The event will begin at the time and date stated in the registration information. If you don’t receive the link within two hours of signing up via Eventbrite, please let us know by emailing events@enterprisenation.com. (Note: It may be in your junk folder.)
About Enterprise Nation
Enterprise Nation is the UK’s most active small business network, helping thousands of people turn their good idea into a great business. Join today to get everything you need to start and grow your small business, in one place.

LinkedIn Do's & Don'ts for Success
2026-05-26 09:30 - 11:30 | Online
Finding it hard to make LinkedIn work for your business? Many small business owners set up a profile but post irregularly or struggle to engage the right audience, then wonder why results don’t follow.
This workshop focuses on giving you LinkedIn strategies that generate meaningful connections and business growth. You’ll optimise your profile, craft engaging content, and network effectively. By the end, you’ll have practical skills and actionable strategies to make LinkedIn a powerful tool for your business.
What You’ll Learn:

Optimising Your Profile: Learn how to create a professional and compelling LinkedIn profile that attracts the right audience.

Building a Network: Discover strategies for connecting with potential clients, collaborators, and industry peers effectively.

Creating Engaging Content: Explore how to post updates, articles, and multimedia content that positions you as an expert in your field.

Generating Leads: Learn practical methods to identify prospects, start conversations, and turn connections into opportunities.

Personal Branding on LinkedIn: Understand how to present your business consistently and authentically to build trust.

Analytics & Growth: Learn how to monitor engagement, track performance, and adjust your LinkedIn activity for maximum impact.

Overview of the Employment Rights Act Webinar
2026-06-03 10:00 - 11:00 | online workshop
The upcoming changes to the Employment Rights Act represent one of the most significant shifts in UK employment law in recent years.
Join us, alongside leading employment law specialists from Birketts LLP, for a focused webinar exploring what these reforms mean for employers, and how to prepare now.
This session will provide a clear overview of the proposed changes and the practical impact they could have on your business.
Key Reforms We’ll Cover:
• Unfair dismissal qualifying period reduced from 2 years to 6 months
• Compensation cap removed and time limits extended for unfair dismissal claims.
• Stronger restrictions on changing contracts, including “fire and rehire”
• Statutory sick pay expanded – no waiting days and no lower earnings limit
• Easier union recognition and industrial action
• Greater employer duty to prevent sexual harassment
• New working time and holiday record-keeping requirements
• Right to guaranteed hours for zero-hours workers
• Expanded parental rights and protections
Why This Matters
These changes significantly increase employer risk exposure and reduce flexibility in managing people and workforce change.
Businesses will need to:
• Review contracts and workplace policies
• Reassess dismissal and disciplinary procedures
• Strengthen compliance and documentation processes
• Enhance workplace culture and preventative measures
The businesses that prepare early will be best placed to manage risk and maintain control – secure your place to stay ahead of the changes.
Date: Wednesday 3 June 10.00am – 11.00am
Virtual: Zoom Platform
Cost to attend: Free for Members and Non-Members £25.00 + VAT

Once you understand the changes, the next question is practical: What do we need to do, and when? Join us at our in-depth workshop on 9 July, designed as an action-focused session for organisations that want to move from awareness to implementation.

Funding, grants & levy transfer: How Small Businesses can access financial support with apprenticeships
2026-06-08 12:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
Unlock the full range of financial support available to small businesses who want to bring apprentices into their workforce. This webinar demystifies apprenticeship funding, explains how to access government incentives and shows you how levy transfer from larger organisations can cover up to 100% of training costs. This webinar is brought to you by Amazing Apprenticeships, supported by the Edge Foundation as part of the Small Business Summer campaign.

Strategies for Successful Email Marketing
2026-06-09 09:30 - 12:00 | Online
Ever feel like your emails just aren’t getting noticed? You’re not alone! Many small business owners send out emails but aren’t sure how to make them really work.
In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of email marketing — how to write messages people actually want to read, send them to the right people, and see what’s working (and what’s not).
We’ll cover simple, practical steps to help you:

Get started in collecting data

Creating emails that connect with your audience

Share updates, offers, or stories that keep people interested

Use easy tools to send and track your emails

By the end, you’ll feel confident using email as a simple and effective way to stay in touch with your customers and grow your business.

What You’ll Learn:

Building a Solid Foundation: Learn the fundamentals of email marketing, from creating subscriber lists to segmenting your audience for targeted messaging.

The Legal Bits: Get an understanding of the legalities of email marketing including Marketing Consent (GDPR) and unsubscribes.

Crafting Irresistible Content: Dive deep into the art of crafting emails that captivate your audience.

Automation and Personalisation: Explore the power of automation to streamline your email campaigns and the art of personalisation to create a tailored experience for each recipient.

The Customer Journey: Learn how to utilise email marketing for more than just conversion. Nurture your customers and create touchpoints to improve customer engagement.

Analytics and Optimisation: Learn how to track and interpret key metrics, identify areas for improvement, and optimise your campaigns for maximum impact.

Inclusive Employer webinars
2026-06-09 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Recruiting the right people is getting harder and many employers are missing out on strong candidates without realising it.
We’re offering a fully funded, practical online programme for hiring managers to help you recruit more effectively, fairly and confidently.
What you’ll get:

Practical tools to improve job adverts and attraction
Better shortlisting and interview techniques
Confidence in fair, legally compliant recruitment
Access to a wider, more diverse talent pool
Improved retention and team performance

This is focused on what works in real businesses, not theory.
Sessions (online):

Tuesday 9 June 10:00am to 11:30am
Wednesday 10 June 10:00am to 11:30am
Thursday 11 June 10:00am to 11:30am

In Person: Master Your Finances
2026-06-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Patch Chelmsford, Springfield Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM2 6QR
Finance made simple for Essex SMEs – boost profitability with practical tools, automation and expert support.

Running your own business means wearing a lot of hats, but finance doesn’t have to be the one that keeps you up at night!
Join us in Chelmsford for a practical workshop designed specifically for SME owners who want to take control of their finances, improve profitability and make smarter decisions with confidence.
This interactive session takes a two-part approach:
🔹 Part 1: Finance Fundamentals Made Simple
Tony Brown, has over 30 years experience in finance and will be breaking down the essentials every business owner needs to understand. He will share how to stay on top of your finances through things like forecasting and cash flow management.
🔹 Part 2: Smarter Finance with Automation
Kelsey Brown, founder of the first in-person AI automation school, will delve into how modern tools and automation can save you time, reduce errors and give you better financial visibility. We’ll show you practical ways to streamline your processes and free up time to focus on growing your business.
This isn’t theory, you’ll walk away with practical advice you can apply immediately to your business.
Delivered in partnership with Metro Bank and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), this workshop also gives you access to a wider support network.
After the session, stay for informal networking, where you can:

Ask those burning finance questions
Connect with fellow SME owners
Learn about the support, tools and resources available to help your business thrive

Whether you’re just getting to grips with your numbers or looking to modernise your financial processes, this workshop will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward.
Spaces are limited so reserve your place today.
Parking:
The nearest car parks for Patch can be found on Parkopedia here. Please allow enough time to park and walk across to the venue.

Online: Master Your Finances
2026-06-11 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Finance made simple for Essex SMEs – boost profitability with practical tools, automation and expert support.

Running your own business means wearing a lot of hats, but finance doesn’t have to be the one that keeps you up at night!
Join us in Chelmsford for a practical workshop designed specifically for SME owners who want to take control of their finances, improve profitability and make smarter decisions with confidence.
This interactive session takes a two-part approach:
🔹 Part 1: Finance Fundamentals Made Simple
Tony Brown, has over 30 years experience in finance and will be breaking down the essentials every business owner needs to understand. He will share how to stay on top of your finances through things like forecasting and cash flow management.
🔹 Part 2: Smarter Finance with Automation
Kelsey Brown, founder of the first in-person AI automation school, will delve into how modern tools and automation can save you time, reduce errors and give you better financial visibility. We’ll show you practical ways to streamline your processes and free up time to focus on growing your business.
This isn’t theory, you’ll walk away with practical advice you can apply immediately to your business.
Delivered in partnership with Metro Bank and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), this workshop also gives you access to a wider support network.
After the session, stay for informal networking, where you can:

Ask those burning finance questions
Connect with fellow SME owners
Learn about the support, tools and resources available to help your business thrive

Whether you’re just getting to grips with your numbers or looking to modernise your financial processes, this workshop will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward.
Spaces are limited so reserve your place today.

Pricing for Profit (Without Losing Customers)
2026-06-17 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
Here’s an uncomfortable truth: your pricing isn’t just a number. It’s a signal. It tells customers what to think about you before they’ve even tried you. Join Small Business Britain, Lloyds Bank Academy and Catherine Erdly for Pricing for Profit (Without Losing Customers) – a session that digs into the psychology and practicality of pricing for small businesses. Because the goal isn’t just to charge more. It’s to charge right – in a way that builds trust, communicates value, and quietly makes your business more attractive, not less.
You will learn:
– How to price confidently and profitably
– Ways to communicate value to customers
– Common pricing mistakes to avoid
About Catherine: Small Business Britain are really excited to be partnering with the Lloyds Bank Academy on this comprehensive programme of webinars focused on offering support & expertise to small businesses during these difficult times.
These workshops range from financial management, branding for business growth, productivity hacks & stress management. The Lloyds Bank Academy is a free learning resource helping to upskill businesses on a variety of topics. From using social media to attract customers to staying safe from fraud, these lessons can help improve your business – and they’re completely free!

What to do When Cash Gets Tight
2026-06-17 13:00 - 14:00 | Online
When cash gets tight, most small business owners do one of two things: panic or ignore it. Neither helps. Join Small Business Britain, Lloyds Bank Academy and Claire Rulton for What to Do When Cash Gets Tight – a practical, no-nonsense session on one of the most stressful realities of running a small business. Cash flow is not just a finance issue. It affects confidence, decision-making and day-to-day operations. The good news is that with the right actions, taken in the right order, you can steady the ship more quickly than you might think. Come away with a clearer head, practical ideas and a plan you can put into action straight away.
You will learn:
– How to manage cash flow during challenging periods
– Practical ways to reduce financial pressure
– Steps to build greater business resilience
About Claire Claire Rulton is Director of Addison Accounts & Training Ltd and works closely with small business owners to help them understand their finances, improve cash flow and build stronger businesses. Known for her practical, no-nonsense approach, Claire makes financial information feel accessible and useful, giving business owners the confidence to take control of their numbers and plan ahead. Small Business Britain are really excited to be partnering with the Lloyds Bank Academy on this comprehensive programme of webinars focused on offering support & expertise to small businesses during these difficult times.
These workshops range from financial management, branding for business growth, productivity hacks & stress management. The Lloyds Bank Academy is a free learning resource helping to upskill businesses on a variety of topics. From using social media to attract customers to staying safe from fraud, these lessons can help improve your business – and they’re completely free!

Using Canva to Create Content
2026-06-17 13:00 - 14:30 | Online
Learn how to design eye-catching graphics that elevate your brand and engage your audience without needing a design degree or expensive software, with this beginners guide to using Canva!
Struggling to create professional-looking visuals for your business? Many small business owners find themselves overwhelmed by design tools or rely on costly designers for every project. Introducing Canva – your key to success (and less stress!)
In this workshop we’ll be looking at the potential for our business by using Canva – and you’ll learn how to navigate the platform, design with purpose and ease, and maintain brand consistency to captivate your customers and build marketing materials that help you to reach your business goals. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and skills to produce high-quality visuals that resonate with your audience, put your best foot forward, and unlock new possibilities for your marketing!
What You’ll Learn:

Getting Started with Canva: Understand how to sign up, set up your account, and navigate the platform’s interface.

Creating a Brand Kit: Learn how to establish a cohesive brand identity by setting up your brand kit, including logos, colours, and fonts.

Designing Graphics: Discover how to create various graphics, from social media posts to posters, using Canva’s templates and tools.

Resizing Designs: Master the art of resizing your designs to fit different platforms and purposes, ensuring consistency across all your materials.

Practical Application: Participate in a live session where you’ll see how easy it is to create a graphic for a business campaign, and get the guidance from an expert on how to use the platform for your own business.

Mastering Your Website Performance
2026-06-25 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Website Performance is a practical webinar focused on how to assess, diagnose, and improve how well a website performs — from both a technical and SEO perspective.

Join us and our members dotcraft Ltd for this informative session, where they’ll walk you through;

proven ways to surface performance issues (speed, Core Web Vitals, crawlability, indexing, and on-page efficiency)
share a clear framework for prioritising fixes
highlight quick wins that can deliver immediate impact.

You’ll leave with top tips, actionable next steps, and a checklist of improvements to boost user experience, search visibility, and conversions.
Date: Thursday 25 June 10.00am – 11.00am
Virtual: Zoom Platform
Cost to attend: Free for Members and Non-Members £25.00 + VAT

Employment Rights Act In-Depth Implementation Workshop
2026-07-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Birketts Law LLP, Brierly Place, New London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 0AP
From Legislation to Implementation
The upcoming changes to the Employment Rights Act will significantly reshape employer obligations and increase organisational risk.
Once you understand what is changing, the next question becomes practical:
What do we need to do, and when?
Join us, alongside leading employment law specialists from Birketts LLP, for an in-depth, action-focused workshop designed to help businesses move from awareness to implementation.
This interactive session will go beyond overview and focus on the practical steps required to protect your business and ensure compliance.
What This Workshop Will Cover:
• Identifying your highest areas of risk under the new framework
• Reviewing contracts, policies and probationary processes
• Strengthening dismissal and disciplinary procedures
• Managing changes to terms and conditions lawfully
• Preparing for increased tribunal exposure
• Updating sick pay, zero-hours and parental policies
• Ensuring compliance with working time and holiday record-keeping
• Implementing effective sexual harassment prevention measures
Why Attend?
These reforms reduce flexibility and significantly increase employer exposure.
This workshop is designed to help you:
• Translate legal change into practical action
• Prioritise immediate steps and longer-term adjustments
• Reduce the risk of costly tribunal claims
• Strengthen governance and documentation
• Protect operational flexibility where possible
You will leave with greater clarity, practical guidance and a structured plan to prepare your business.
Date: Thursday 9 July 10.00am – 12.00pm
Venue: Birketts LLP. Brierly Place, New London Road, Chelmsford, CM2 0AP
Cost to attend: Free for Members and Non-Members £45.00 + VAT
Businesses that act decisively will be best placed to manage risk, maintain control and operate confidently under the new regime.
Secure your place and take the next step from understanding to implementation.

Business Start-Up Course
2026-07-13 10:00 - 2026-07-14 15:00 | Online
Free 2-day course! Turn your idea into reality with tools, knowledge & confidence. Perfect for aspiring & early-stage entrepreneurs.

Got a business idea you’re ready to explore, or a new business you want to grow with more confidence? 🚀
This free 2-day online course from Ambitious Essex is designed specifically for aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage business owners who want practical support, expert guidance, and a chance to connect with others on a similar journey.
Led by an experienced business professional, the course will help you turn your ideas into something more structured, sustainable and ready for growth.
Across the two days, you’ll learn how to:
✅ Develop and test your business ideas
✅ Understand your customers and target market
✅ Build a practical and realistic business plan
✅ Explore finance and funding opportunities
✅ Create strong foundations for long-term success
But this isn’t just about learning theory.
There’ll be plenty of opportunities to network, share ideas, and work collaboratively with other people who are at a similar stage in their business journey. Whether you’re looking for feedback, motivation, new connections or simply reassurance that others are figuring it out too, this course is designed to be supportive, interactive and genuinely useful.
Perfect if you’re:
✨ Thinking about starting a business
✨ Recently self-employed or newly launched
✨ Looking for more structure, clarity, and confidence in your next steps

Ready for Biz - Online
2026-07-16 09:30 - 12:30 | Online
The popular Ready for Biz start-up programme returns via Zoom in July 2026!
Are you thinking about setting up a new business? Ready for Biz, Start-Up programme, is returning to support aspiring entrepreneurs.
Why not turn your idea/hobby into a reality?
Workshop dates/times:
The programme consists of 3 x 3-hour sessions, each from 9:30 am to 12:30 pm.

Thursday 16th July – Exploring your idea and shaping your business plan

Thursday 23rd July – Understanding financials and funding options

Thursday 30th July- Marketing, social media & online presence and Practicalities of getting started

Ready for Biz: What’s it about?
To increase entrepreneurship, we are offering a fantastic opportunity to come together to develop the knowledge, skills and confidence they need to launch a successful business.
This inspiring programme has been specifically created to help encourage you to set up a new business. From refining your business idea to marketing and managing your finances, we can help you prepare to successfully start your business.
This programme is delivered by Let’s Do Business Group, one of the leading providers of business support and training in the South East and East of England.
100’s of aspiring entrepreneurs have already completed our start up programmes, using the learnings to turn ideas into viable businesses, will you be next?
Your place includes:

Nine hours of expert-led start-up training delivered over three interactive workshops

Copies of all presentation slides

Practical templates including business plans, cash flow forecasts, and other useful planning tools

A bank of resources and recommended websites

Opportunities to ask questions and receive guidance tailored to your business idea

The programme will help you to:

Explore and clarify your business idea

Research your target market and understand your competitors

Develop your business model and kick-start your business plan

Help you to understand the numbers, create projections and explore funding options

Start shaping your marketing strategy, incl. online and social media presence

Set your business goals

Overview of business types, tax and insurance, accounting software, and bank accounts

Tools to help with taking the next step

Gain peer support from like-minded people

These sessions will be taking place via Zoom. You can access Zoom easily from your desktop computer, laptop, tablet or mobile phone. Join our experienced Start-Up Coaches for a series of 3 x 3-hour sessions starting Thursday 16th July 2026.
Please note that previous participants have done so whilst caring for children and juggling other distractions. So don’t let that be a barrier, and if you have any specific needs or cannot attend all the sessions, please just drop us a line at info@ldbgroup.co.uk, and we can discuss options.
Closing date for applications is Monday 13th July.
Eligibility:
Open to anyone who’s not yet up and running or has registered as self-employed or a company within the last 12 months.
Only invited applicants can apply through this registration. These are applicants from Gosport, Rochford, Brentwood, or East Sussex who have been referred through REED/DWP.
All other applicants should apply here – https://www.zeffy.com/en-GB/ticketing/ready-for-biz-online

We look forward to hearing from you!

How email can actually help you grow your business
2026-07-20 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
What separates an email that people open, read and click from one that they just delete?
Constant Contact is here to help you find the answer!
In this session, we will break down the building blocks of high-performing emails and share a five-step framework for successful email marketing.
Topics covered in this session

Essential tactics small business marketers need to get started

Simple ways to move your email strategy to the next level

The five steps to take to make your email marketing successful

Take your learning one step further with a 30-day Constant Contact free trial, allowing you to test new ideas and follow along from day one as your learn.
About the speakers
Both Berit Block and Sophie Dunlea are employees at Constant Contact, the AI-powered marketing platform that has helped millions of small businesses and nonprofits grow for over 30 years.
Berit Block is Senior Director of International Marketing at Constant Contact. Based in London, she leads Constant Contact’s global marketing.
Her work centres on removing the complexity from marketing for small business owners, startups and sole traders so they can find new customers, communicate effectively and grow without needing to be a marketing specialist themselves.
Berit has extensive experience in other companies such as Meta and WeTransfer. Beyond her corporate career, she is co-founder of Planet Thanet Locations, a Kent-based agency serving the film, photographic and events sector and serves as Non-Executive Director and Advisor to Girl Hike CIC.
Sophie Dunlea is the UK Marketing Lead at Constant Contact. Also based in London, she works closely with communities and partners across the UK who share a passion for helping small businesses get seen, connect with customers and grow through smarter marketing.
With a background in events and large-scale partnerships, Sophie specialises in helping businesses turn simple marketing ideas into meaningful results.
If you have any questions you’d like Berit and Sophie to answer during the webinar, please send them to events@enterprisenation.com.
How to join the online webinar
When you register for the webinar, you’ll receive an automatic email, including the Zoom link to access the event. The event will begin at the time and date stated in the registration information. If you don’t receive the link within two hours of signing up via Eventbrite, please let us know by emailing events@enterprisenation.com. (Note: It may be in your junk folder.)
About Enterprise Nation
Enterprise Nation is the UK’s most active small business network, helping thousands of people turn their good idea into a great business. Join today to get everything you need to start and grow your small business, in one place.
About Constant Contact
Constant Contact offers email and digital marketing tools that make it easy for your small business or nonprofit to get the attention and revenue it deserves. Constant Contact has joined Lunch and Learn to share its extensive marketing expertise.

LinkedIn Do's & Don'ts for Success
2026-07-21 09:30 - 11:30 | Online
Use LinkedIn to expand your professional network, attract new clients, and create real business opportunities – all without feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start.
Finding it hard to make LinkedIn work for your business? Many small business owners set up a profile but post irregularly or struggle to engage the right audience, then wonder why results don’t follow.
This workshop focuses on giving you LinkedIn strategies that generate meaningful connections and business growth. You’ll optimise your profile, craft engaging content, and network effectively. By the end, you’ll have practical skills and actionable strategies to make LinkedIn a powerful tool for your business.

Event details:
🕙Time: 09:30am – 11:30am
📌Location: Online (ZOOM)
💷Cost: £30pp +VAT

What You’ll Learn:

Optimising Your Profile: Learn how to create a professional and compelling LinkedIn profile that attracts the right audience.

Building a Network: Discover strategies for connecting with potential clients, collaborators, and industry peers effectively.

Creating Engaging Content: Explore how to post updates, articles, and multimedia content that positions you as an expert in your field.

Generating Leads: Learn practical methods to identify prospects, start conversations, and turn connections into opportunities.

Personal Branding on LinkedIn: Understand how to present your business consistently and authentically to build trust.

Analytics & Growth: Learn how to monitor engagement, track performance, and adjust your LinkedIn activity for maximum impact.

Meet the Host:
Stacey Pretty | Marketing Director, Let’s Do Marketing

Stacey Pretty is the Marketing Director at Let’s Do Marketing, where she helps small and growing businesses turn their marketing ideas into real results.
With more than 19 years of hands-on experience in both B2B and B2C marketing, Stacey’s worked on everything from digital campaigns and content strategies to traditional promotions. She’s seen what works, and what doesn’t, for small businesses trying to make their mark.
Stacey’s mission is simple: to make marketing easier to understand and more effective for business owners who have a lot on their plates. Her sessions focus on practical, achievable steps that bring consistency, confidence, and results.

FSB Webinar: Stronger Teams: Practical ways to support employee mental health
2026-07-21 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Join workplace wellbeing experts for a practical session on creating psychologically safe, supportive teams. Learn how employers and small business leaders can confidently support mental health, reduce stigma and build cultures where people feel seen, valued and able to thrive.
Creating a mentally healthy workplace starts with leaders who feel confident supporting their people. In this session, Jay Harrison from Mind and Denise Markham Wroe from Open to Coaching draw on their extensive experience in wellbeing, leadership and organisational culture to explore what truly makes a workplace psychologically safe. They’ll share practical approaches that move beyond awareness and into meaningful, human‑centred action.
Our host will be Rob Harrison Consultancy Partner at Glued Ltd

Designed for employers and small business owners, this webinar offers clear guidance on reducing stigma, recognising distress and fostering environments where staff feel valued, supported and able to thrive. Expect honest insights, real-world strategies and tools you can immediately use to strengthen wellbeing across your team.
We will also hear from HealthyShoots:
Healthyshoots is an Occupational Health Portal that offers affordable individual case support or annual unlimited occupational health support, depending on the needs of the member.
It started as a trial two years ago but due to its success and the needs of the FSB membership it has developed into a very popular benefit.
The Healthyshoots team has worked together since 1999 and has handled more than 10,000 OH cases, including more than 1,000 for the FSB in the last two years.
Carl Laidler is the Director of OH Support for Healthyshoots but previously was a founding shareholder in Health Assured the EAP and Managing Director of Prevent plc who conducted in excess of 100,000 workplace health screens throughout the UK

How to avoid email jail: Why deliverability is everything
2026-07-27 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
Writing a brilliant email is pointless if it never reaches the inbox.
In this session, we tackle deliverability head-on. The do’s and don’ts, the common reasons emails get blocked, and the quick wins that can instantly improve your delivery rate.
Plus: why subject lines, send times, sender details and pre-headers matter more than you think.
Topics covered in this session

How to build a top-tier sender reputation to avoid the spam folder

How to instantly improve your inbox rate by managing your list and boosting email engagement

How to win back silent subscribers to boost your deliverability

Bring each session to life with a 30-day Constant Contact free trial, helping you turn insights into action.
About the speakers
Both Berit Block and Sophie Dunlea are employees at Constant Contact, the AI-powered marketing platform that has helped millions of small businesses and nonprofits grow for over 30 years.
Berit Block is Senior Director of International Marketing at Constant Contact. Based in London, she leads Constant Contact’s global marketing.
Her work centres on removing the complexity from marketing for small business owners, startups and sole traders so they can find new customers, communicate effectively and grow without needing to be a marketing specialist themselves.
Berit has extensive experience in other companies such as Meta and WeTransfer. Beyond her corporate career, she is co-founder of Planet Thanet Locations, a Kent-based agency serving the film, photographic and events sector and serves as Non-Executive Director and Advisor to Girl Hike CIC.
Sophie Dunlea is the UK Marketing Lead at Constant Contact. Also based in London, she works closely with communities and partners across the UK who share a passion for helping small businesses get seen, connect with customers and grow through smarter marketing.
With a background in events and large-scale partnerships, Sophie specialises in helping businesses turn simple marketing ideas into meaningful results.
If you have any questions you’d like Berit and Sophie to answer during the webinar, please send them to events@enterprisenation.com.
How to join the online webinar
When you register for the webinar, you’ll receive an automatic email, including the Zoom link to access the event. The event will begin at the time and date stated in the registration information. If you don’t receive the link within two hours of signing up via Eventbrite, please let us know by emailing events@enterprisenation.com. (Note: It may be in your junk folder.)
About Enterprise Nation
Enterprise Nation is the UK’s most active small business network, helping thousands of people turn their good idea into a great business. Join today to get everything you need to start and grow your small business, in one place.
About Constant Contact
Constant Contact offers email and digital marketing tools that make it easy for your small business or nonprofit to get the attention and revenue it deserves. Constant Contact has joined Lunch and Learn to share its extensive marketing expertise.

Making AI work for your small business: Turning opportunity into action
2026-07-28 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
Making AI work for your small business: Turning opportunity into action (with Rt Hon Rishi Sunak MP)
AI is starting to change how small businesses run and grow, but many owners are still unsure how to get the most from it.
Concerns about cost, trust and risk remain common and are stopping some businesses from embracing AI.
Work 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.
Join 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.
Why attend
• See how small businesses are using AI in real situations
• Understand the main barriers identified in recent FSB work
• Hear Rishi Sunak’s views on supporting AI adoption
• Ask questions during the live Q&A
What will be covered
• Introduction: Why AI matters now
• FSB’s new report on AI adoption: Key takeaways for small business owners
• Rishi Sunak in conversation with small businesses: Practical experiences and challenges
• Live Q&A: Questions from attendees
• Closing remarks: Key takeaways

Using Canva to Create Content
2026-07-29 13:00 - 14:30 | Online
Learn how to design eye-catching graphics that elevate your brand and engage your audience without needing a design degree or expensive software, with this beginners guide to using Canva!
Struggling to create professional-looking visuals for your business? Many small business owners find themselves overwhelmed by design tools or rely on costly designers for every project. Introducing Canva – your key to success (and less stress!)
In this workshop we’ll be looking at the potential for our business by using Canva – and you’ll learn how to navigate the platform, design with purpose and ease, and maintain brand consistency to captivate your customers and build marketing materials that help you to reach your business goals. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and skills to produce high-quality visuals that resonate with your audience, put your best foot forward, and unlock new possibilities for your marketing!

Event details:
🕙Time: 1:00pm – 2:30pm
📌Location: Online (ZOOM)
💷Cost: £30pp +VAT

What You’ll Learn:

Getting Started with Canva: Understand how to sign up, set up your account, and navigate the platform’s interface.

Creating a Brand Kit: Learn how to establish a cohesive brand identity by setting up your brand kit, including logos, colours, and fonts.

Designing Graphics: Discover how to create various graphics, from social media posts to posters, using Canva’s templates and tools.

Resizing Designs: Master the art of resizing your designs to fit different platforms and purposes, ensuring consistency across all your materials.

Practical Application: Participate in a live session where you’ll see how easy it is to create a graphic for a business campaign, and get the guidance from an expert on how to use the platform for your own business.

Meet the Host:
Kerry Madge | Marketing Executive, Let’s Do Marketing

Kerry Madge is a creative and hands-on Marketing Executive at Let’s Do Marketing, bringing nearly six years of experience helping businesses grow through social media. With a BA in Marketing Management, she specialises in social media advertising, content creation, and graphic design, turning ideas into engaging posts that capture attention and drive results.
Kerry excels in social media advertising, graphic design, and copywriting. Her passion lies in crafting creative solutions and developing comprehensive marketing strategies that empower small businesses to visualize and achieve their overarching goals.

FSB Webinar: Funding the future
2026-07-30 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Looking to grow your business but unsure where to find funding or how to secure it? Join us for Funding the Future, an insightful webinar designed to help small business owners navigate the often-confusing world of business finance and funding opportunities.
Whether you’re looking to invest in sustainability initiatives, expand your operations, purchase equipment, or simply strengthen your cash flow, this session will provide practical guidance on accessing the right funding for your business.
We’ll be joined by Celia Gaze, Founder and CEO of the The Wellbeing Farm, one of the UK’s most innovative and sustainable event venues. Celia will share her inspiring journey from transforming a rundown farm into a thriving, award-winning business with sustainability at its heart. She’ll offer a candid look at her experience securing funding to support The Wellbeing Farm’s growth and environmental initiatives, including the challenges, opportunities and lessons learned along the way.
You’ll also hear from Capitalise, the partner behind the FSB Funding Platform, who will demonstrate how FSB members can use the platform to explore funding options, connect with a wide range of lenders, assess their financial health and improve their chances of securing finance. The platform provides access to over 100 UK lenders and helps businesses identify the most suitable funding solutions for their needs.
You’ll discover:

Real-world insights from a business owner who has successfully secured funding
How the FSB Funding Platform can help you find and apply for funding opportunities
Practical steps you can take immediately to improve your funding readiness

Whether you’re considering your first funding application or looking for new ways to finance your next stage of growth, this webinar will equip you with the knowledge, tools and confidence to take the next step.

How to use AI without sounding like a machine
2026-08-03 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
This session is all about working smarter, without losing your voice.
Learn how to create high-quality content, spot and fix overused phrases and prompt like a pro. Plus, discover how automations can do the heavy lifting in the background, freeing you up over the busy summer months.
Topics covered in this session

How to get more marketing done and generate high-quality content

How to prompt like a pro – prescriptive techniques to get results that match your brand voice

How to do more and save time with automation

Make the most of each session and sign up to a 30-day Constant Contact free trial, so you can follow along, practice what you’ve learned, and see the tool for youself.
About the speaker
Andrew Davis is a UK-based digital marketing trainer, keynote speaker and generative AI specialist with over 25 years’ experience in the digital industry.
He has worked with organisations including FIFA, Forbes, Ogilvy, Sony PlayStation, Dyson, O2 and Tesco, helping teams understand how social media, content strategy and emerging technology can drive better marketing outcomes.
His career spans started by launching BBC Radio 1Xtra and Myspace.com, alongside four years serving on the Ofcom Advisory Committee for England. Andrew is known for making complex digital topics practical, engaging and easy to apply.
If you have any questions you’d like Andrew to answer during the webinar, please send them to events@enterprisenation.com.
How to join the online webinar
When you register for the webinar, you’ll receive an automatic email, including the Zoom link to access the event. The event will begin at the time and date stated in the registration information. If you don’t receive the link within two hours of signing up via Eventbrite, please let us know by emailing events@enterprisenation.com. (Note: It may be in your junk folder.)
About Enterprise Nation
Enterprise Nation is the UK’s most active small business network, helping thousands of people turn their good idea into a great business. Join today to get everything you need to start and grow your small business, in one place.
About Constant Contact
Constant Contact offers email and digital marketing tools that make it easy for your small business or nonprofit to get the attention and revenue it deserves. Constant Contact has joined Lunch and Learn to share its extensive marketing expertise.

Smarter ways to grow your contact list
2026-08-10 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
In this session, you’ll discover practical and creative ways to grow your audience, from sign-up forms and QR codes to social media, events, and incentive offers.
Discover how to capture valuable insights, such as your subscribers’ interests and preferences, so you can deliver more relevant communications, nurture your audience over time and ultimately grow your business.
Topics covered in this session

Strategies to attract new contacts to your list
Creative ways to capture valuable information like interests and preferences
How to manage your list over time to drive success

Jump in and prepare before the session with a 30-day Constant Contact free trial, so you can put your learnings into action.
About the speaker
Andrew Davis is a UK-based digital marketing trainer, keynote speaker and generative AI specialist with over 25 years’ experience in the digital industry.
He has worked with organisations including FIFA, Forbes, Ogilvy, Sony PlayStation, Dyson, O2 and Tesco, helping teams understand how social media, content strategy and emerging technology can drive better marketing outcomes.
His career started by launching BBC Radio 1Xtra and Myspace.com, alongside four years serving on the Ofcom Advisory Committee for England.
Andrew is known for making complex digital topics practical, engaging and easy to apply.
If you have any questions you’d like Andrew to answer during the webinar, please send them to events@enterprisenation.com.
How to join the online webinar
When you register for the webinar, you’ll receive an automatic email, including the Zoom link to access the event. The event will begin at the time and date stated in the registration information. If you don’t receive the link within two hours of signing up via Eventbrite, please let us know by emailing events@enterprisenation.com. (Note: It may be in your junk folder.)
About Enterprise Nation
Enterprise Nation is the UK’s most active small business network, helping thousands of people turn their good idea into a great business. Join today to get everything you need to start and grow your small business, in one place.
About Constant Contact
Constant Contact offers email and digital marketing tools that make it easy for your small business or nonprofit to get the attention and revenue it deserves. Constant Contact has joined Lunch and Learn to share its extensive marketing expertise.

Breaking Down the Basics of SEO
2026-08-12 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Get your business found online by the people who need you most.
Tired of feeling like your website is invisible? You’re not alone. Many small business owners put time and effort into building their website but still struggle to show up in search results.
This workshop will help you fix that. You’ll learn simple, practical SEO strategies that bring more visitors to your site, attract your ideal customers, and help your business grow. We’ll break down the jargon, showing you how to optimise your website, create content that ranks, and use free tools to see what’s working.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to make your business more visible online — and feel confident doing it yourself.

Event details:
🕙Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
📌Location: Online (ZOOM)
💷Cost: £30pp +VAT

What You’ll Learn:

Understanding Search Engines: Gain insights into how search engines work and how they determine the ranking of web pages.

Keyword Research and Optimisation: Learn how to strategically incorporate keywords into your content to increase visibility and attract the right audience.

On-Page SEO Techniques: Explore the critical on-page elements that contribute to a website’s SEO success.

Off-Page SEO Strategies: Delve into off-page SEO factors, including backlink building and social signals. Understand how to cultivate a strong online presence beyond the confines of your website.

Technical SEO Essentials: Uncover the technical aspects of SEO, such as site speed, mobile optimisation, and crawlability.

Measuring and Analysing SEO Performance: Explore key metrics and tools to measure the effectiveness of your SEO efforts.

Meet the Host:
Stacey Pretty | Marketing Director, Let’s Do Marketing

Stacey Pretty is the Marketing Director at Let’s Do Marketing, where she helps small and growing businesses turn their marketing ideas into real results.
With more than 19 years of hands-on experience in both B2B and B2C marketing, Stacey’s worked on everything from digital campaigns and content strategies to traditional promotions. She’s seen what works, and what doesn’t, for small businesses trying to make their mark.
Stacey’s mission is simple: to make marketing easier to understand and more effective for business owners who have a lot on their plates. Her sessions focus on practical, achievable steps that bring consistency, confidence, and results.
