Launchpad Southend

Grow Your Email List by Leveraging Small Business Saturday
2025-11-18 11:00 - 12:00 UTC | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us!
Marketing Coach Minal Patel shares actionable tips on how small businesses can turn this retail event into a powerful contact building opportunity.
Learn how to attract new subscribers, engage your community, and create lasting connections that go beyond just one day. Perfect for business owners looking to grow their audience and boost long term marketing success.
You will learn:
– How to build your email list effectively
– How to create a great initial impression to create lasting connections within a short space of time
Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Rochford and Southend Networking Breakfast in Collaboration with The Launchpad 202511
2025-11-19 08:00 - 10:00 | Launchpad Southend, Launchpad Airport Business Park, Rochford, SS4 1YH
Essex Business Partnerships and Launchpad are working in collaboration to launch this new networking breakfast in the Rochford/Southend area for those businesses who like to network. Networking is a great marketing tool and if undertaken properly can build long lasting relationships for businesses to work together and grow, if you have never tried it before come along to see first hand how beneficial it can be.
Essex Business Partnerships is an organisation that works countywide in Essex. It brings all types of businesses together with the aim of working together as a community, to enable our member businesses to grow and develop through communication, connection, and collaboration. Our vision is to be a dynamic, innovative, and transparent organisation providing valuable tools and information to enable businesses to thrive whatever stage of their development. We will be holding business networking events at different venues and areas in Essex as well as Business Show, virtual events, workshops, and educational events that will help businesses succeed and grow. We are a friendly community, with sole traders to the large corporate businesses, everyone is welcome with no lock outs.
Launchpad is where you will find innovative, entrepreneurial businesses and start ups in and around Southend-On-Sea. It provides purpose built workspace from offices, workshops to meeting and conference spaces. They are passionate about creating a sustainable and healthy environment for business. The building is designed for the highest level of sustainability to support Council’s climate change agenda, achieving an ‘Outstanding’ grade of BREEAM environmental standard.
They offer business support and expert guidance connecting one to the right people, reviewing business strategy or directing one towards available investment opportunities.
For more information contact info@essexbusinesspartnerships.org.uk or call Sally Sykes on 07940 459703.
When registering your place please be aware:
1. Cancellation Policy – If you cancel your booking 48hrs, or more, prior to the event, then you can claim a refund of your ticket cost less any fees that may be assigned to your booking.
2. At the time of booking – Please confirm that as an attendee you would like/would not like your contact details shared with attendees following the event.
Please note; the attendee lists shared following our events are for the use of attendees only & cannot be shared with anyone else. As with any organisation we have a legal responsibility to protect the information (in particular people’s personal information) entrusted to us by our members.
3. Photography – Please note that photographs will be taken at events and used on our website and social media platforms. Please confirm that as an attendee you would like/would not like, yourself shown in these pictures
4. Dietary Requirements – At the time of booking please confirm any dietary requirements.

Brand It Beautiful: DIY Photography Tips for Small Business Owners
2025-11-19 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us!
In this session, visual branding expert Claire Gardiner shares her top DIY photography tips tailored specifically for small business owners. Learn how to create eye catching images that reflect your brand’s personality, using just your smartphone and simple styling.
Whether you’re shooting for social media, your website, or product listings, Claire will show you how to elevate your visuals and build a cohesive brand image
You will learn:
– How to use your Iphone to take professional images
– How to style yourself professionally and cohesively with your brand
– How to create your brands look
Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

FSB Business Bootcamp: Harvesting Resilience
2025-11-20 09:00 - 15:00 | The Granary Estates, Parsonage Lane, Woodditton, Suffolk, CB8 9RZ
Looking to strengthen your small business and make it more resilient? Join us for our biggest bootcamp yet, where you’ll gain unrivalled insight and knowledge and the opportunity to network with hundreds of business leaders from across the East of England.
Set in the beautiful grounds of The Granary Estates near Newmarket, you’ll take part in workshops to shape your sales and business strategy, gain greater knowledge about PR and the changing political landscape, and hear from the region’s most influential journalists, influencers, and entrepreneurs. Guaranteed to sell out quickly, early booking is advised!
Your stellar line-up includes:

Chisola Chitambala: Essex-based entrepreneur who is co-founder of CB Virtual Assistant and reached the final five on this year’s edition of The Apprentice UK.
Adam Smith: Co-Founder and Chief Community Officer of HelpBnk, the first organisation to make the humble door bell a key part of a business pitch.

Tickets are open to FSB members (£10) and Non-members (£15)
Agenda
9am: Event registration, refreshments and browsing of exhibitors
10am – 3pm: Business Bootcamp, hosted by David Bell & Candy Richards, with complimentary refreshment breaks and lunch
Talks & Workshops include:

Adam Smith from HelpBnk: “From Setback to Start-Up: Why Connection Beats Competition for Small Business”
Chisola Chitambala from CB Virtual Assistant and The Apprentice – “Lights, Setbacks, Action: Real Lessons from the Business Frontline”
‘PR on a Shoestring; Big Buzz without the Big Budget’ Panel with Adam Smith, Jasmine Oak, Clarissa Place and Mike Rigby
Jason Roberts from Kaleida International: “From Prejudice to Progress: Mastering Sales and Driving Inclusive Growth”
Martin McTague, Chair of FSB: “Voice of Small Business: Action, Advocacy, and Ambition in 2026”
“Beyond the Budget Headlines – Setting the SME Agenda Together” Panel with Simon Dedman, Jade Uko, Gareth John and Chisola Chitambala
Fireside chats with Federation of Small Businesses & sponsors

3pm – 4pm: Networking opportunities
Venue
Nestled in the Suffolk countryside just outside Newmarket, The Granary Estates offers a unique and stylish setting for our East of England Business Bootcamp. Set in beautifully restored 18th-century barns, this exclusive-use venue blends rustic charm with modern facilities. Surrounded by countryside, it will provide a memorable backdrop for a day of hands-on workshops, panel discussions and exclusive talks from high-profile entrepreneurs.
The venue features on‑site parking with disabled bays, step-free entry into the main barns, and accessible toilets. Please contact the team for access requirements.

LinkedIn Do's & Don'ts for Success
2025-11-20 09:30 - 11:30 | Online
LinkedIn has emerged as a powerful platform for professionals to connect, network, and advance their careers.
Join us as we delve into the essential do’s and don’ts of LinkedIn, uncovering the key tactics to optimise your profile, expand your network, and engage effectively with potential customers and collaborators.
Whether you are just starting, or you are a regular user looking to enhance your profile, this webinar is designed to equip you with practical insights in how to make the most of the platform.
We will also look at LinkedIn Campaign Manager including how to create audiences and paid ad capabilities.
Event details:
Time: 9.30am – 11.30am
Location: Online (ZOOM)
Cost: £30pp

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

Stacey is the Marketing Director of Let’s Do Marketing, a marketing consultancy and services agency which is tailored to specifically support new and small businesses with organising and fulfilling their marketing ideas. With over 17 years of marketing experience, working in both B2B and B2C environments, Stacey has extensive experience in managing, creating, and promoting a variety of products and services using both online and offline marketing tools. Understanding the challenges faced by new and small businesses, Stacey seeks to simplify the complexities of marketing, with an approach focused on effectiveness and consistency, ensuring that every marketing effort translates into tangible results. For Stacey, marketing isn’t just about campaigns; it’s about building relationships and fostering an excellent customer experience.

LinkedIn Content That Connects and Builds Trust
2025-11-20 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.

Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.

Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us! LinkedIn isn’t just for job seekers, it’s a powerful platform for business growth. In this practical and energising session, LinkedIn coach Ashley Leeds shows you how to boost your visibility, attract the right audience, and turn connections into customers.

You will learn:

– Spot and fix the top 3 LinkedIn mistakes most small businesses make

– Transform your profile into a powerful, client-attracting asset

– Come up with simple content ideas that drive clicks and conversations

– Show up consistently on LinkedIn in just 15 minutes a day – Build genuine connections with your ideal audience (without the awkward sales pitch)

Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Bandwidth Essex #1 - November 2025: 'Trust - the invisible architecture of success' with Trevor Folley
2025-11-20 12:00 - 15:00 | Launchpad Southend, Launchpad Airport Business Park, Rochford, SS4 1YH
Join us at the first Bandwidth Essex Lunch Series – November 2025 with a keynote address by Trevor Folley
‘Trust – the invisible architecture of success’
An event by ChadSan, powered by The Peer Space
Join us at Launchpad Southend on Thursday November 20th 2025 from 12 for 1230PM at for an exclusive event series for business leaders and professionals in Essex.
We deliver real world stories alongside education around key considerations in growing and scaling your business.
November keynote speaker: Trevor Folley: “Trust – the invisible architecture of success“
What will be covered:
You have a clear goal, a watertight plan, and a skilled team. It’s not enough. Without trust you will always under deliver. With trust you enhance every facet of performance and compound your potential. This talk unpacks what it is, why it’s essential, and how to put it to work.
A culture of trust is essential for a successful business. It’s the invisible foundation of all collaborative endeavours and every community. Hear how to nurture the five aspects of trust:
Honesty
Intentionality
Objectivity
Integrity
Reliability
Building trust will raise the game of every individual in your business.
About Trevor:
A full time speaker, trainer and coach, Trevor has dedicated over 20 years to helping schools and other organisations optimise their most valuable resource – people.

Following a successful career as a teacher and leader in schools, he went on to be a county education adviser, Regional Adviser for The National Strategies, and hub leader for a cluster of schools in Ipswich. He co-led five years of national action research (with a total of 130 schools) into effective collaboration and produced three research documents for the DfE.
What to expect on the day:

An in-depth & first-hand view from an experienced professional
Insights to help you make positive changes to your business
Discussion of current challenges facing startups, scaleups and tech businesses
Education around EMI Options, EIS funding, R&D tax credits and exit options for founders
Networking with a select group of Essex based industry leaders and professionals

Don’t miss this opportunity to:

learn how to navigate the challenges of growing a business
connect with your peers
network informally before and after lunch
share experiences, stories, and challenges
learn from and interact with leading minds and thought leaders in business

The Bandwidth Essex Lunch Series offers the perfect opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, enjoy delicious food, and expand your horizons.
See you there!
FREE EVENT kindly arranged by Chadsan, powered by The Peer Space.
Reserve limited availability tickets here on Ticket Tailor.

How to achieve Small Business Sustainability through Local Collaboration
2025-11-21 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us! In this session, sustainability expert Adam Bastock explores how small businesses can achieve meaningful environmental change by working together at a local level. Discover why collaboration rather than competition, is key to sustainability success!
You will learn:
– Practical ways small businesses can support each other.
– How community events spark action and partnerships more than formal training
– Identify quick wins for collective environmental impact.
Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Getting Started with Influencer Marketing
2025-11-24 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us!
Influencer marketing has become one of the most powerful tools for brands looking to connect with their audiences in authentic and engaging ways. This is no surprise, as people love to be able to see a product tried and tested by someone they admire. In this session, Social Media Expert Katherine George will take you through the steps necessary to launch your own influencer campaign.
You will learn:
– How to find the right influencer for your brand
– Understand the process behind an influencer lead campaign
– The benefits of using influencer to support your brand Sign up for more webinars in this series here:
https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Social Media Advanced: Paid Ads
2025-11-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
Description
Start running Paid Ads on social media, and reach more customers than ever before!
Want to level up your social media channels and skills, and learn how to run smart and effective paid social media campaigns on Facebook and Instagram?

Join the course from Let’s Do Marketing and follow the whole process with an expert social media coach, where you’ll learn how to dive deeper into and create a more targeted marketing strategy, and how to plan and set up sophisticated Paid Ad campaigns from Facebook Ads Manager.
Event details:
Time: 10am – 1pm
Location: Online (ZOOM)
Cost: £35pp
During this course, we’ll cover:

Developing your customer personas online – investigating habits, social media usage, trends and more

Ways you can use data better – from installing a Facebook Pixel to using your Mailing Lists to create targeted audiences for your Paid Ads

Learning about Meta Business Suite – useful tools included, as well as how to navigate the platform

Different formats and types of ads

Creating graphic design content for Paid Ads using Canva

Walkthrough of creating a Paid Ad Campaign on Facebook Ads Manager – from creating your campaign and narrowing down your audience, to creating Ad copy and Call to Actions.

Measuring the results of your Paid Ad campaigns

As well as a dedicated Q&A session, where you can ask a social media expert any questions you have about running and creating your own paid advertisements on social media.

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

Kerry Madge is a dynamic Marketing Executive at Let’s Do Marketing, bringing nearly six years of diverse experience collaborating with businesses of all sizes. Holding a BA in Marketing Management, 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 visualise and achieve their overarching goals.

Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
2025-11-25 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us!
Do you ever feel like a fraud, despite your accomplishments? You’re definitely not alone, imposter syndrome affects high achievers across all industries and can often impact their business and potential negatively. Coach Jane Galloway will lead an empowering webinar designed to help you understand, challenge, and overcome imposter syndrome. Through relatable insights and practical tools, Jane will guide you toward building lasting self-belief, allowing your full potential to be reached.
You’ll learn:
– What imposter syndrome really is and why it’s so common
– How to overcome imposter syndrome
– How to reframe your self-doubt and boost your self confidence
Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Why brand awareness ads are NOT a waste of money
2025-11-27 11:00 - 12:00
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us!
Brand awareness campaigns are often underestimated, but they can be the launchpad for a successful Meta ads strategy. In this webinar, Michaela Parker will show how to unlock their potential and not be discounted.
You will learn:
– Why brand awareness campaigns can set the stage for long-term success with Meta
– Three overlooked campaign types that deliver powerful results
– How to interpret and value awareness metrics the right way
Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Innovation Grant Mentoring Webinar - What is Innovation funding?
2025-11-27 12:30 - 14:00 | Online
Innovation Grant Mentoring Webinar – What is Innovation funding?
Welcome to our online event, hosted by the Innovation Grant Mentoring programme, where we will dive into the world of innovation funding! Join us for an informative webinar where we will discuss what innovation funding is all about and how it can benefit your projects. Our mentors will guide you through the process and provide valuable insights to help you secure the funding you need. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to learn and grow your ideas!
Join our experts, Colm Watling and Liz Flint, in a comprehensive session where we will discuss:

Discover what innovation funding is and how it fuels research, development, and market growth.
Learn how to access Innovate UK grants, from identifying calls to crafting winning applications.
Understand who provides innovation funding — from government to investors — and why they do it.
Gain practical tips on timing, eligibility, partnerships, and maximising success in funding bids.

Colm Watling – An aeronautical systems engineer, Colm has an engineering background including innovation in defence systems (MOD) and the automotive sector (Triumph Motorcycles). He brings regional business support programme experience from his time at PERA where he ran the East Midlands Manufacturing Advisory Service, as well as having Technology Transfer roles at Loughborough and Nottingham Trent Universities. Colm has more recently worked for InnovateUK and the Catapult Network, and now works InnovateUK, a number of universities and increasingly on energy efficiency and community energy projects on the Isle of Wight.
Liz Flint – Liz is director of Flint Innovation and has twenty years of experience at the intersection of business, academia, and Government. Liz has a strong track record of successful grant applications and is a mentor on the Innovation Grant Mentoring Programme. She’s also a Monitoring Officer for a wide range of Innovate UK funded projects, as well as working with several Universities to deliver the Help to Grow programme. ​Liz believes in empowering people, harnessing innovation to improve productivity, and cutting through the noise. Liz covers areas including: Strategy development and implementation, Bid writing, Small business start-up and growth strategies and planning, Coaching and mentoring SMEs, Training and workshop delivery.
Innovation Grant Mentoring Programme
A fully funded programme for innovative SMEs, which to date has supported businesses in the region to secure £3.1m of innovation funding and inspired many more founders to consider working towards innovation funding to support their innovative research and development projects.
It is a free-to-access service with a pool of experienced innovation mentors and bid coaches that companies will be linked to based upon their areas of expertise and background. Giving businesses practical insights to improve success rates.
Supporting businesses in Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex
https://connectedinnovation.co.uk/innovation-grant-mentoring-project/

How to Find the Right Investors
2025-11-28 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us! Need investment to launch or grow your business? Paul Grant shares proven strategies to secure capital through crowdfunding, angel investors, venture capital, and more. Ideal for startups or scaling businesses, this one-hour webinar offers a clear, step-by-step approach to raising funds.
You’ll learn:
– How to choose the best investment route for your business
– The fastest ways to find and connect with investors
– How to deliver a winning pitch
– How to value your business and avoid legal pitfalls Join for insider tips and a live Q&A to tackle your funding questions!
Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Create a Rock Solid Business Plan
2025-12-01 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.

Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us!

A strong business plan is the foundation for growth and resilience, allowing you to make confident decisions and stay focused on what drives your business forward. In this webinar, business strategist Emma Mills-Sheffield will share practical ways to build a plan that works for you.

You will learn:

– ⁠How to prioritise what really matters in your business plan

– ⁠Tools to help you build and challenge your plan

– How to monitor your progress and make sure you’re on the right track during the year

Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Improving your Facebook Skills Workshop
2025-12-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Do you know how to get the most out of Facebook for your business?
Facebook is the world’s largest social media platform. It has around 50 million active users in the UK and is popular with people of all regions, income levels, genders, and educational backgrounds.
Not many of us have the budget to hire dedicated staff or third-party agencies to run our account, so how do you get the most out of Facebook and use it to attract new followers and engagement without this?
Join us for an informative and practical workshop which will provide an overview of how to best utilise Facebook for your organisation – vital when you have limited time and resources.
To make this workshop as bespoke as possible we will ask you a few short questions when you register in order for us to understand the needs of the group, but we will cover the following areas:
• The importance of marketing on social media for business
• How to create compelling and engaging posts
• Practical examples of what works and what doesn’t
• Using Facebook to recruit and inspire future employees
• A chance to share your own experiences and learn from others
• How to schedule posts in advance and work smarter
• Facebook features explained, including Stories and Reels
• A brief overview of the Meta Business Suite and Facebook Insights
• The importance of scheduling and calendars.
Our social media workshops are popular, and places are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Who Should Attend
This training is for staff who have the responsibility of social media as part of their role and have a good working knowledge of Facebook, but do not necessarily have a working knowledge of how to make the platform work best for their business. This course will assist in gaining that understanding and how to tailor it to established business goals.
What’s Included

The workshop lasts for 2 hours but further time is available at the end for any outstanding questions or queries.
After the workshop, we will send you a pack containing all the advice, tips and links discussed during the session.
You will also be able to pass on follow-up questions to our trainers, SRX Consultancy, who will offer practical support (via email or a quick call) to ensure you are able to put everything you learned into action.

About the Trainers
SRX Consultancy is a boutique PR, social media and communications agency specialising in areas including charity and small business. Their bespoke and tailored training sessions have been running for 10 years – attended by staff from hundreds of charities, organisations, and small businesses, always receiving positive feedback. This workshop will be delivered by Simon Rothstein and Lauren Soar.
Date: Tuesday 2 December 2025 10.00am to 12.00pm
Virtual: Zoom Platform
Cost to attend: Members £95.00 + VAT and Non-Members £150.00 + VAT
Please note: This event will not be recorded and any material will only be circulated to those that attend

Money Made Simple: Cash Flow Forecasting for Small Businesses
2025-12-02 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us!
Managing money can feel overwhelming, especially for small or one-person businesses. Join Simon Rigby in breaking down the essentials of cash flow forecasting into clear, simple steps you can apply right away. You’ll learn how to predict your income and expenses, avoid cash shortfalls, and make confident financial decisions without needing an accounting degree.
You will learn:
• What cash flow forecasting is (and why it matters more than profit).
• A Simple method to forecast your cash flow using real numbers from your business.
• Spot potential cash gaps early—and know what actions to take.
• Practical tips and tools to keep your business financially healthy.
• Walk away with confidence in managing your money, not fear of it.
Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Stress Smarts: Thrive Under Pressure
2025-12-03 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Join us as we gear up for Small Business Saturday on 6th December with our series of free, virtual webinars designed to help small businesses grow.
Each webinar is hosted by successful small business owners and recorded for later viewing.
Attend 10 sessions, and receive a free gift from us!
Stress is often seen as an inevitable part of the entrepreneurial journey but it doesn’t have to be. In this session, Helen will help you look beyond the clichés to understand what stress really is and identify hidden triggers that quietly undermine wellbeing and decision-making in business. Helen will also be sharing practical techniques to effectively handle the pressures of entrepreneurial life.
You will learn:
– The true nature of stress and why it’s often misunderstood
– How to identify hidden stressors (mesotrauma®) specific to founders
– Learn and apply tips to start hacking your stress response
Sign up for more webinars in this series here: https://smallbusinesssaturdayuk.com/the-tour

Force For Business: Virtual Networking for Military Entrepreneurs
2025-12-04 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
A friendly, supportive and productive virtual networking event for entrepreneurs in the military community.
This is a unique joint partnership between X-Forces Enterprise (XFE) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) to provide regular opportunities to bring together business owners from the Armed Forces community to network, exchange knowledge, and build contacts across the whole of the UK.
Event Highlights
These focused events are a great option for businesses led by members of the military community who may be new to networking and looking for a friendly place to start. Equally, it is a great opportunity for those with more networking experience who would like to grow their contacts within a community of inspiring business leaders.
Structure
The event will feature a brief presentation from a former member of the Armed Forces community (TBC) who is now active in the business environment. Following this, the meeting will move into breakout rooms, allowing attendees the space for further discussion on the theme or to share any other topics of interest. This is a space to network in a friendly and supportive environment.

Host – Ren Kapur MBE

Ren Kapur MBE is founder and CEO of X-Forces Enterprise, established in 2013.
A social entrepreneur, Ren has harnessed her experience to enable individuals and communities to support themselves and thrive through enterprise. In doing so she has brought together corporate, government, and charity stakeholders at the very highest levels.
Ren was awarded an MBE for service to the Entrepreneurship in 2016 in the Queen’s 90th Birthday Honours list and is a Reservist in the British Army; a Visiting Fellow at Lord Ashcroft’s Business School, Armed Forces Champion for the Federation of Small Businesses, and newly-appointed board member and SME Lead for Enterprise M3 LEP.
Guest Speaker – Adam Casey – tmc3 Ltd
RAF veteran Adam Casey co-founded tmc3 to redefine cybersecurity consultancy, placing people, not just technology, at its heart. Leaving behind a corporate career, he launched his business with no external backing, guided by a bold vision to create a values-led, veteran-founded company.
Since 2020, tmc3 has grown by 86% year-on-year, working with dozens of organisations including Parliament, the Ministry of Defence, the NHS, and major infrastructure bodies. But it’s not just commercial success that sets them apart, it’s their commitment to community. Over one-third of Adam’s team are veterans and tmc3 actively mentors service leavers, helping them transition into rewarding tech careers.
Audience
This is a joint venture between X-Forces Enterprise and FSB. The networking sessions are open to all businesses – both FSB members and non-members, XFE beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries so please feel free to share with your networks. #FSBConnectOnline #MilitaryinBusiness
Although this event could be particularly useful to veterans, service leavers, reserves, cadets and their families, everyone is welcome to embrace the wider business community, grow community cohesion, and exchange knowledge.
Commitment to our Communities
Since its inception in 2013, XFE’s mission has been to provide members of the wider military family (transitioning service personnel, veterans, their families, reservists, cadets and beyond) with the tools to make informed decisions about their future and, through enterprise skills training, empower them to reach their career potential. The old military adage of ‘leave no one behind’ sits at the very heart of our ethos.
FSB is committed to and values diversity and inclusion in everything we do. The strength of FSB rests on the diversity of our self-employed and small business owners who reflect the whole of the UK business population, both as members and volunteers. With this, we want all small business owners and the self-employed, from whichever communities they belong to, to feel welcomed and a part of the FSB community.
Our events and activities, including those focused on a specific issue or equality characteristic, are open to all. We encourage shared learning, wider conversations, and a collective responsibility to inclusivity through allyship, where marginalised groups are supported by others.

Insights for SMEs on Surviving Recessions and Transforming into Leading Businesses
2025-12-04 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
In an era of economic uncertainty, resilience and adaptability are the true hallmarks of successful businesses.
This interactive online workshop is designed specifically for midsize to larger SMEs that are navigating transformation and growth during challenging economic times.
Event Details:
Date: Thursday 4th December 2025
Time: 10:00AM – 1:00PM
Location: Online (ZOOM) Workshop
For: Businesses based in Essex (excluding Thurrock)
Led by an experienced business coach, this session will explore how to build resilience, manage resources effectively, and create a forward-looking strategy that balances immediate operational needs with long-term investment.
Through practical insights and real-world examples, participants will learn how to:

Sustain operations and manage resources effectively during economic downturns

Balance short-term stability with long-term strategic investments

Encourage innovation and agility while maintaining strong governance

Identify new opportunities for growth amid market disruptions

Participants will gain actionable frameworks, real-world case studies, and proven strategies to strengthen their business fundamentals, enhance decision-making, and position their organisations for future leadership.
Whether your business is preparing for the next economic shift or actively working to scale sustainably, this workshop will equip you with the tools and insights needed to thrive, not just survive.
Who Should Attend:

CEOs, Managing Directors, and Senior Executives of SMEs

Business Transformation and Strategy Leaders

Financial and Operations Managers involved in growth planning

Don’t miss this opportunity to future-proof your business and connect with peers who share your ambition for lasting success.

About the host:
Ross Moran, Business Advisory Manager
Over two decades focusing on new venture creation and business transformation, Ross has worked in multiple finance, management, and technology roles within small and large organisations. Implementing new business models and developing a deep understanding of how technology process improvements intersect with business lifecycles and ecosystems has given Ross a unique perspective on most aspects of business including market research, new product development, raising finance, sales, marketing, and business transformation.

This workshop is provided courtesy of Backing Essex Business. Fully-funded by Essex County Council and delivered by Let’s Do Business Group. Backing Essex Business (Formerly Back to Business Essex) is here to support business growth across the county, promoting economic growth and creating jobs, by providing free business support, access to finance and training.

For more information visit https: www.backingessexbusiness.co.uk

Please click here to see the Backing Essex Business Privacy Policy

HR Prime FREE Training Session- Company Branding- Attracting Customers and Enhancing Your Reputation
2025-12-04 11:30 - 12:30 | Online
HR Prime FREE Training Session
Company Branding: Attracting Customers and Enhancing Your Reputation
Join us for an exciting online training session where you will learn all about company branding. Discover how to attract customers and enhance your reputation in the market. Don’t miss this opportunity to take your business to the next level!
Please register to secure a spot!

BIG Networking for Small Businesses
2025-12-05 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Event details
FSB’s BIG networking event is back for 2025! Whether you’re self-employed, a start-up, or simply looking to grow your B2B connections – make sure you join us for FSB’s biggest online networking event, ever!
At this event
What can you expect at our BIG networking event? You’ll have the opportunity to network with entrepreneurs on zoom, in small breakout rooms, and we’ll be joined by a brilliant guest to share their experiences and tips for achieving great business growth.
Hosts
David Bell
Founder and CEO of Simboc Ltd
Hollie Whittles

Speakers

Chisola Chitambala is an Essex-based entrepreneur who reached the final five on this year’s edition of The Apprentice UK. She is the co-founder of CB Virtual Assistant, a successful virtual assistant business that she has run with her business partner for nearly three years. With a background as a paediatric nurse and an MBA to support her transition into entrepreneurship, Chisola brings a wealth of experience to her work. She is also a passionate advocate for migraine awareness, a children’s storyteller, and a keen netball player.
Chisola will share her inspiring journey full of navigating challenges, pivoting during adversity, adapting her business, staying true to her values, and the valuable lessons she learned from her time on national TV – all experiences that have shaped her entrepreneurial path. With honesty and insight, she’ll also reflect on the barriers she’s faced as a young woman in business, and how she continues to overcome them. Expect an empowering, thought-provoking session filled with real-world insights, resilience, and motivation.
Places at this event are limited so register early to avoid disappointment!
Please 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.
Event contact
For help and support regarding this event, please telephone our dedicated events helpline 01253 336028 or email csdeventsupport@fsb.org.uk

Christmas Networking Breakfast at Braxted Park
2025-12-11 07:30 - 09:30 | Braxsted Park Estate, Braxted Park Estate, Great Braxted, Essex, CM8 3EN
🎄 End 2025 in Style at Our Final Physical Networking Event of the Year! 🎄
Celebrate the season with a sparkling start to your day in the stunning Braxted Park, one of Essex’s most prestigious country estates.
Enjoy a warm welcome, a delicious breakfast, and festive touches throughout the stately surroundings as you connect with local business professionals. You’ll also be able to explore the estate’s exquisite grounds on a guided tour.
We’ll also hear from Alex Rayner, CEO of Braxted Park, whose innovative leadership has helped shape the estate into a premier events destination. His insights into managing a historic estate promise to inspire.
Don’t miss this festive finale to our 2025 networking calendar!
Date: Thursday 11 December 7.30am – 9.30am
Venue: Braxted Park Estate. Great Braxted, Essex CM8 3EN
Costs to attend: Members £30.00 + VAT Non Members £50 + VAT
Only TWO attendees per Company
Agenda – Subject to change
7.30am – Registration, refreshments & networking
8.15am – Welcome from Denise Rossiter, CEO – Essex Chambers
8.20am – Welcome from Alex Raynor, CEO – Braxted Park Estate
8.50am – Networking & refreshments
9.30am – Event ends

Extra Information

Parking Info
Free parking is available at the venue

Refreshments
Breakfast refreshments will be provided

Ticket Details

Member Type

successNon MemberMember

Standard Tickets
012 ticket(s) @ £50.00 +VAT

Total

£0.00 +VAT

Using AI in Bid Writing – Opportunities and Risks
2025-12-16 09:30 - 10:00 | Online
Essex Growth Agency is pleased to offer this free webinar for businesses and organisations across Essex. Join us for an insightful session on how Artificial Intelligence is shaping the future of bid writing. Discover practical ways AI can support your bidding process, the potential risks involved, and expert tips to improve success rates.
Date: 16th December 2025
Time: 09:30 AM – 10:00 AM
Agenda:

Introduction – Overview of Thornton & Lowe
The Importance of Effective Writing – How strong writing impacts success rates
What’s Involved in Writing – Key considerations for a winning bid
How AI Can Help – Practical applications for bid writing
How AI Can Be a Risk – Understanding limitations and compliance issues
Q&A Session – Your questions answered

Speaker:
Charles Grosstephan, Director of Development, Thornton & Lowe
About Thornton & Lowe:
Thornton & Lowe is a leading Bid Management and Bid Writing Consultancy with a success rate of nearly 80%, supporting businesses across all sectors nationwide to plan and secure contracts and frameworks.

December Virtual Networking
2025-12-17 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Connect with local business leaders and professionals at our December Virtual Networking Session!
As we close out 2025, this engaging online event offers the perfect space to build new relationships, exchange insights, and discuss New Year goals. This is your chance to wrap up the year with meaningful connections and fresh ideas for 2026.
During the session, you’ll rotate through a series of virtual rooms, giving you the chance to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new professionals from across our business community.
Don’t miss this final networking opportunity of the year. Join us to celebrate your 2025 achievements and set the stage for success in 2026!
Date: Wednesday 17 December 10.00am to 11.30am
Platform: Zoom
Cost: FREE for Members Non-Members £35.00 + VAT
Agenda
9.50am – Sign into Zoom Meeting
10.00am – Welcome introduction from a Client Relationship Manager
10.05am – Networking
11.30am – Meeting finishes
Feedback from previous virtual networking sessions:

“There is a good mix of businesses and very interesting discussions in our chat rooms. These events enhance the variety of businesses that can be recommended to the cross section of clients we deal with”

Health, wellbeing and personal development for small businesses
2025-12-17 16:30 - 17:45 | Online
Welcome to our national health, wellbeing, and personal development event for small businesses, happening on the third Wednesday of the month.
When you’re busy running your own small business, it’s important to take the time to look after your mental, physical, and financial wellbeing. Join us for insightful presentations from wellbeing experts who will share practical tips and advice. You’ll also have the chance to connect and network with fellow small business owners.
This month’s theme will announced soon.
Meet your host:

Anna M Stapleton is a passionate Mental and Emotional Resilience Coach, is dedicated to elevating health, wellbeing and personal growth within the small businesses’ community. Drawing on her professional background, Anna guides entrepreneurs and small business owners to cultivate resilience, embrace accountability, and unlock their full potential for themselves and their staff.
Her coaching and mentoring approach empowers clients to overcome everyday challenges, align their actions with core values, and build a regret-free future.
As a champion for personal growth and development, Anna offers powerful insights through her coaching and mentoring sessions, workshops, and speaking engagements. Her mission is to foster a community of emotionally intelligent, mentally strong individuals who thrive in both their professional and personal lives.
You will get a chance to:

Hear from a variety of speakers during the ‘In Conversation With’ discussions
Connect and engage with fellow business owners during the sessions
Explore how we can further support the wellbeing agenda within our communities

Understanding and Developing a Marketing Strategy
2026-01-06 10:00 - 13:00 | Zoom
Description
Need to create a marketing strategy document but don’t know where to start? This workshop breaks down all the elements of a marketing strategy, to help you create a consistent and cohesive plan that helps you attract the right customers, communicate clearly, and grow your business with purpose.

Struggling to make your marketing actually work for your business? Many small business owners dive into social media posts, flyers, or ads without a clear plan – and end up frustrated when results don’t follow.

That’s why this workshop focuses on helping you create a marketing strategy that drives results. You’ll learn how to define your audience, sharpen your message, and turn your strengths into a clear, consistent plan you can use every day. By the end, you’ll have the know-how and framework to confidently market your business with purpose and direction.

Event details:
🕙Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
📌Location: Online (ZOOM)
💷Cost: £35pp +VAT

What You’ll Learn:

What is a Marketing Strategy & Market Analysis: Understand what a marketing strategy really is and why it matters, while exploring your market landscape to identify opportunities and gaps where your business can stand out.

SWOT Analysis & Competitor Insights: Assess your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats, and learn how to analyse competitors to differentiate your business effectively.

Identifying Target Audiences & Crafting Your Unique Value Proposition: Discover who your ideal customers are and how to communicate what makes your business special in a way that resonates with them.

Brand Identity & Messaging: Define a clear, consistent brand personality, and create compelling messages that connect with your audience across all channels.

Choosing Channels & Measuring Success with KPIs: Identify the marketing channels that will deliver the best results for your business and learn which key performance indicators to track to see what’s working and where to improve.

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 20 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.

A Guide to Managing the Risks of Social Media Workshop
2026-01-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Do you understand how to tackle the risks of Social Media?
Social media can be a powerful tool – but it also comes with risks. Every business of every size is vulnerable to online abuse, misinformation and reputational damage. The more platforms you use, the greater the potential for things to go wrong.
This practical and engaging session will help you understand your legal and safeguarding responsibilities, and how to manage your online presence with confidence. You’ll learn how good moderation not only protects your organisation but also builds trust, encourages engagement and strengthens your brand.
Led by experienced trainers, this course will equip you with the tools to create safe, inclusive and value-led online spaces. It will be a mix of discussion, theory and hands-on demonstration.
To make this workshop as bespoke as possible we will ask you a few short questions when you register in order for us to understand the needs of the group, but we will cover the following areas:

Moderating Facebook pages and groups, including live moderation and banning users
Moderation tools across other social platforms including Instagram and X
Zoom moderation and how to manage meetings and webinars safely
How to respond to and manage reviews, especially on Google and Facebook
Setting a tone and policies that reflect your businesses’ values
Balancing openness with safety in your online spaces
Understanding the legal responsibilities around online activity

The session will also include a confidential Q&A – either in a group or one-to-one – where you can raise specific concerns or challenges you’ve faced.
Our social media workshops are popular, and places are limited, so please book early to avoid disappointment.
Who Should Attend
This training is for all staff who have responsibility for what is posted on social media, either as part of their daily role or because they are in a management or CEO position. For organisations with Boards, it also is aimed at trustees with legal responsibilities. No prior knowledge is required, although some experience of using the platforms will be helpful for the hands-on demonstrations.
What’s Included

The workshop lasts for 2 hours but attendees can stay on for a further 30 minutes for additional discussions and advice.
After the workshop, we will send you a pack containing all the advice, tips and links discussed during the session.
You will also be able to pass on follow-up questions to our trainers, SRX Consultancy, who will offer practical support (via email or a quick call) to ensure you are able to put everything you learned into action.

About the Trainers
SRX Consultancy is a boutique PR, social media and communications agency specialising in areas including charity and small business. Their bespoke and tailored training sessions have been running for 10 years – attended by staff from hundreds of charities, organisations, and small businesses, always receiving positive feedback. This workshop will be delivered by Simon Rothstein and Lauren Soar.
Date: Tuesday 13 January 2026 10.00am – 12.00pm
Virtual: Zoom Platform
Cost to attend: Members £95.00 + VAT and Non-Members £150.00 + VAT
Please note: This event will not be recorded and any material will only be circulated to those that attend

Online Digital Marketing Workshop
2026-01-14 10:00 - 12:00 | online workshop
Master the Skills to Thrive Online with this Digital Marketing Workshop, presented by Heavyweight Digital.

Step into the fast-paced world of digital marketing with this practical and insightful Digital Marketing Workshop online or in person in Braintree with our amazing Speaker Heavyweight Digital Ltd.
Whether you’re launching a startup, growing a brand, or exploring a career in marketing, this session will equip you with the tools and strategies needed to succeed in the digital age.

Online Digital Marketing Workshop
2026-01-14 10:00 - 12:00 | online workshop
Master the Skills to Thrive Online with this Digital Marketing Workshop, presented by Heavyweight Digital.

Step into the fast-paced world of digital marketing with this practical and insightful Digital Marketing Workshop online or in person in Braintree with our amazing Speaker Heavyweight Digital Ltd.
This workshop will provide an overview of four key digital marketing services that support business growth:

Google Ads
Meta Ads (Facebook & Instagram)
Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)
Organic Social Media

For each channel, we will explain its purpose and how it can be used effectively within a marketing strategy. Attendees will see practical examples of ads, posts, and organic search listings, alongside clear guidance on the typical investment required — including time, budget, or a combination of both.
The session will also include simple, step-by-step guidance to help participants understand how to get started with each service, enabling them to make informed decisions about where to focus their marketing efforts.
This workshop is ideal for business owners and entrepreneurs looking to improve their digital presence and choose the right marketing channels for their business.
