Launchpad Southend

Achieving Email Excellence Strategies for Successful Email Marketing
2025-04-16 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | Online
Email Marketing remains a cornerstone of digital communication, which when used effectively can elevate your brand, foster customer loyalty, and drive remarkable results.
In this 2-hour webinar, we will explore how email marketing can be a game-changer for your business, unravelling the secrets behind crafting compelling campaigns and how they seamlessly integrate into your overall marketing strategy.
Event details:
Time: 10 am – 12 pm
Location: Online (ZOOM)
Cost: £30pp
Throughout this webinar, we’ll cover essential topics such as:

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 Personalization: Explore the power of automation to streamline your email campaigns and the art of personalization 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 touch points to improve customer engagement.

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

Get ready to revolutionize your approach to email marketing and unlock the full potential of email marketing for your business!

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.

Social Media Content Playbook – What to Post, When to Post, and How to Engage
2025-04-09 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
Struggling for social media ideas? Not sure what to post or how to turn likes into real engagement?
Join Sam Flynn in this one hour session, hosted by Small Business Britain and BT Digital Skills, where you’ll learn how to create a content strategy that works.
You’ll learn: – What kinds of content are engaging and driving growth
-How to time your posts to reach most people
–How to create meaningful relationships with your audience
Whether you’re just starting out with social media or need to rethink your strategy, this webinar will give you clear, practical steps to get social media to work for your business.
Don’t miss out—register now!
About Sam: Sam is a digital wellbeing and social media coach, trainer, and speaker with 14 years of experience. Sam helps businesses grow through social media while addressing the challenges of the digital world. Specialising in digital culture, Sam supports businesses in boosting productivity and employee wellbeing by fostering healthier online habits and reducing smartphone overuse.
About BT Digital Skills: BT Digital Skills is partnering with Small Business Britain to deliver digital skills to small businesses across the UK.

Learn How the New GPSR is Changing Product Safety Standards Webinar
2025-04-07 14:00 - 15:30 | Webinar
The General Product Safety Directive (GPSD) was replaced by the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR) on 13th December, marking a significant shift in product safety across the EU. Whether you’re a manufacturer, distributor, or retailer, these changes cover all consumer products sold in the EU, online and offline, and will impact how you do business.
Join us for this informative 1 ½ hour webinar where we’ll dive deep into the key updates, new requirements, and how your business can stay compliant. Our trainer will guide you through everything you need to know about this important regulation.
We will:
• Familiarise companies with the GPSR
• Cover how to review and update internal processes
• Help you ensure product safety and traceability
• Prepare you for increased market surveillance
• How to cooperate with authorities and online platforms

Networking with MasterChef's Anurag Aggarwal
2025-04-03 17:00 - 19:00 | Finishing Line, Unit DCi Prologis Park, Honywood Road, Basildon, Essex, SS14 3TS
Culinary Connections with AnuragFoodStory Ltd
We are delighted to be collaborating with our member and MasterChef UK finalist Anurag Aggarwal for a networking event with bite. Join us for an engaging evening to expand your network and hear all about Anurag’s exciting journey from finance professional to Chef.
Anurag first graced our screens in 2023, appearing on MasterChef UK and fulfilling a lifelong ambition by making it all the way to the final. The experience gave him an all-round exposure to the culinary world, including working with Michelin-starred chefs in the UK and abroad.
Since the series aired Anurag has been driven by his passion for Indian cuisine, corporate background and philosophical mindset for the pursuit of happiness. Attend this event and learn all about the relationship between food and happiness, and the impact that food has on our bodies and mind.
You’ll also hear about Anurag’s current projects including the launch of his food brand POD, providing fresh prepared ready-to-eat meals for organisations and his first cookbook!
Of course, the evening can’t be spent discussing the joy of food or Anurag’s culinary skills without trying some of his delicious dishes. Let food bring you together with other attendees as you enjoy scrumptious samples.
Date: Thursday 3 April 5.00pm – 7.00pmVenue: Finshing Line. Unit DCi, Prologis Park, Honywood Rd, Basildon, SS14 3TS
Costs to attend: Members £30.00 + VAT Non Members £50 + VAT
Only TWO attendees per Company
Agenda: Subject to change
5.00pm – Registration, refreshments & Networking
5.30pm – Welcome from Essex Chambers
5.35pm – Presentation from AnuragFoodStory Ltd
6.00pm – Networking & refreshments
7.00pm – Event ends

We look forward to welcoming you to an event where culinary excellence meets meaningful connections.

Extra Information

Parking Info
Free parking is available at the venue.

Refreshments
Refreshments will be provided

SE..whO Breaking down the basics of SEO
2025-04-02 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
In an era where online presence is a necessity, understanding the fundamentals of search engine optimisation (SEO) is crucial for individuals and businesses alike. Navigating this dynamic landscape, can appear overwhelming and complicated for small business owners, but Let’s Do Marketing are here to help.
This 2-hour webinar breaks down the basics of SEO, providing you with the understanding of the core principles and highlights the tools available to help search engines to give you the attention you deserve!
Event details:
Time: 10am – 12pm
Location: Online (ZOOM)
Cost: £30pp
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 Optimization: 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 optimization, and crawlability.

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

Who Should Attend:
· Small Business Owners

Small Business Owners

Content Creators

Entrepreneurs

Anyone Seeking to Enhance Digital Presence

Let’s demystify SEO and empower you to navigate the digital landscape with confidence.

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.

Essex Business Partnerships – Southend Connect Collaborate Construct Networking Event 202504
2025-04-01 16:30 - 18:30 | Black Box Brewery, 18-19 Aviation Way, Southend On Sea, Essex, SS2 6UN
At Essex Business Partnerships, we are creating a community of construction professionals, working in the Built Environment, who want to meet others with a view to learning about industry activity and making new professional connections.
The Southend group will meet monthly on the first Tuesday of the month, with a view to exchanging information, developing professional and social contacts, and supporting each other in pursuit of opportunities, collaboration and new business.
The meetings will take place at The Black Box Brewery, offering the chance to connect with like-minded individuals and groups in a relaxed and informal environment whilst enjoying a refreshing drink from the bar.
Please feel free to bring colleagues and contacts. We do ask all attendees to be involved with the construction industry in some regard and to book in advance.
Essex Business Partnerships is an organisation operating countywide in Essex. We bring all types of businesses together with the aim of working together as a community, to enable 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 virtual events alongside workshops, and educational events to help businesses succeed and grow. We are a friendly community, with sole traders through to large corporate businesses and everyone is welcome.
The Black Box Brewery is a new Micro Brewery & Taproom based on the airport industrial estate in Southend-on-Sea made up of a small team of people all passionate about beer, with an aircraft theme around their beers.
For more information contact info@essexbusinesspartnerships.org.uk or call Sally Sykes on 07940 459703

Online small business meet-up: Essex
2025-04-01 12:00 - 13:00 | Online
Online small business meet-up: Essex
Are you an existing or budding small business owner? Want to grow your network in a friendly, relaxed, and supportive environment?
Enterprise Nation’s monthly online meet-ups bring together founders from all sectors to share ideas, learn new skills, solve challenges and inspire one another.
Running a small business needn’t be lonely. Register now for your next local meet-up.
Meet your Local Leader: Emma Goode
Emma is the managing director of 24 fingers, which helps local Essex businesses who are all fingers and thumbs with their social media! By using their hands, hearts and minds (and 26 years experience in the industry), 24 fingers helps founders grow their businesses and brand through digital marketing.

Access to Finance: Masterclass for Disabled, d/Deaf, and Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs
2025-03-31 11:00 - 12:00 | online workshop
Accessing business finance is a barrier for many entrepreneurs, and when faced with additional barriers, as many Disabled entrepreneurs are – the topic can become even harder to navigate.
On Monday 31st March at 11am, Small Business Britain and Lloyds Bank are running an online Masterclass to help Disabled, d/Deaf and Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs understand how and when to access finance, and what options are out there.
Topics covered in the session include:

How and when to access finance for your business
Finance options available to you
How to set up your finances to ensure you’re in the best place possible for when you are ready to apply for additional funding
Information on the Disability Finance Code for Entrepreneurship which launched in November 2024 to enable better access to finance for Disabled founders

Alongside experts from Lloyds Bank, the Access to Finance Masterclass will be hosted by:
Richard Bearman: Managing Director, Small Business Lending – the British Business Bank
Kirsty Heywood-MacDonald: Founder of Heywood-MacDonald Accountancy Services
Masterclass details:
Date: 31st March
Time: 11am-12pm
Location: Zoom – you will receive the link directly from Zoom within 24 hours of completing the Google Form

Brand Distinction - The Art of Winning Customers’ Attention
2025-03-26 11:00 - 12:00 | Online
In a world where customers are bombarded with choices, how do you make your business the one they remember?
Join Small Business Britain, BT Digital Skills, and marketing expert Karen Webber, founder of Goodness Marketing, for this one-hour webinar to help small businesses stand out in a competitive marketplace.
You’ll learn: – How to move beyond generic marketing and find your authentic brand voice that resonates with your ideal audience – Practical strategies to showcase your unique perspective and experiences in your marketing communications – How to break away from industry “shoulds” to create marketing that feels genuine and attracts loyal customers
Meet the Expert: Karen Webber is a marketing coach and strategist. As the owner of Goodness Marketing, Karen helps small businesses with big hearts do marketing that feels good, does good and gets good results.
About BT Digital Skills: BT Digital Skills is partnering with Small Business Britain to deliver digital skills to small businesses across the UK.

2025-03-26 10:00 - 12:00 | The Innovation Centre, Knowledge Gateway, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3ZQ
After the tremendous success of the workshop we ran last year with the Essex Police Business Crime Team, we are delighted to bring this insightful workshop back in 2025. The session is designed to equip you with the essential skills and techniques to prevent, navigate and resolve conflicts in your working environment.
We understand that it can be difficult to work with customers and the public. Sometimes it’s difficult to avoid confrontation in the workplace and everyday situations can turn volatile extremely quickly. This Conflict Management Workshop is designed especially for public facing employees – ideal for those in the hospitality and service industry.
This workshop will focus on communication methods we can all use to avoid conflict and bring a potentially aggressive situation to a passive and calm conclusion. We will look at barriers to effective communication and how your behaviour can influence the recipient’s behaviour. The workshop will not discuss physical techniques of restraint but it will discuss the Criminal Law Act and use of ‘Reasonable Force’, along with what constitutes an ‘assault’ and what to do to keep yourself safe. We will conclude with an open discussion around Policing.
The Business Crime Team’s main objectives are to work with businesses to;
• reduce violence and the threat of violence towards staff
• prevent crime and Anti-Social Behaviour impacting business
• support business victims
• build partnerships and be the once missing link between business and the service
They run many campaigns to promote awareness of crime, ensure the best investigations are taking place with the evidence available and target the most prolific offenders to bring them before court.

Creating a content marketing strategy that converts
2025-03-25 14:00 - 15:00 | Webinar
Discover how to create a content marketing strategy that converts.
In this webinar, Sally Day, director of Saltoria Marketing, will dive into creating effective content strategies, from identifying target audiences to developing content calendars and measuring success.
Key takeaways from this session:

Tips on how to create a simple and realistic content marketing plan
Advice on how to create a content calendar that works for you
Tips on creating impactful and original content
How to identify your ideal client and measure success

Sally runs Saltoria Marketing and is an Enterprise Nation adviser. Sally and her team are super passionate about making marketing fun and accessible for everyone and giving small companies the same opportunities that big brands get.

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.)

Are you ready to win public sector tenders? With BIZphit
2025-03-25 10:00 - 13:00 | Launchpad Southend, Launchpad Airport Business Park, Rochford, SS4 1YH
Are you poised to seize opportunities in the public sector and elevate your business to new heights? Winning public sector tenders can be a transformative venture, fuelling growth and stability for your business. Now is the time to assess your readiness and sharpen your strategies to become a leading contender for public sector tenders.
Some of the areas below the workshop will cover.
· Is tendering right for your business
· Defining your business profile
· Bid or no bid assessment
· Time management for the tender process
Familiarising yourself with regulations, compliance requirements, and evaluation criteria specific to the public sector will provide you with the winning formula. By doing so, you can tailor your proposals to meet the exact needs of the contracting authority, demonstrating that you are not only a reliable partner but also a strategic asset.
The culmination of these efforts will position you as a formidable candidate ready to win public sector tenders and drive your business forward.
At the end of this workshop, attendees will be better placed to understand the regulations and requirements to ensure they are ready to bid for public sector tenders.

Essex Business Partnerships – Supporting Women in Business Southend Networking Event 202503
2025-03-25 10:00 - 12:00 | The Kitchen Cafe, 18-19 Aviation Way, Southend On Sea, Essex, SS2 6UN
Historically, the professional working environment was geared towards traditional roles. Men go to work and women stay at home. Luckily, things have moved on and women have found their place in the professional environment.
Essex Business Partnerships believe in the importance of creating a safe space for women to support other women; to enable women to build the confidence, knowledge, and experience to pass beyond glass ceilings while still feeling comfortable with creating the right work/home balance for us, as individuals.
If you would like to meet with like-minded women, please join us for our women’s networking meeting at The Kitchen Cafe (Next to the Lounge Club), whilst enjoying a refreshing drink with a delicious slice of their homemade cake. We look forward to meeting you. The group will meet monthly on the 4th Tuesday of the month, with the view to exchanging information, developing professional and social contacts and supporting each other in pursuit of opportunities, collaborations and new business.
Essex Business Partnerships is an organisation operating countywide in Essex. We bring all types of businesses together with the aim of working together as a community, to enable 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 virtual events alongside workshops, and educational events to help businesses succeed and grow. We are a friendly community, with sole traders through to large corporate businesses and everyone is welcome.
For more information contact info@essexbusinesspartnerships.org.uk or call Sally Sykes on 07940 459703.

Lunch and Learn: Overcoming the fear of failure when starting a business
2025-03-21 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
Fear is a natural part of running a business but it doesn’t have to control your growth or your income.
In this webinar, Krystle McGilvery will guide you through understanding the deeper roots of fear, reframing limiting beliefs and building the confidence to earn what you’re worth.
You’ll also discover how to surround yourself with the right people and resources to create lasting financial stability, even in unpredictable times. Packed with practical strategies and real-world examples, this session will help you turn setbacks into stepping stones and create a business that thrives.
Key takeaways from this session:

Understand the deeper roots of fear in your business. Whether it’s pricing, visibility, or doing something new, and learn how external messages and old beliefs might be limiting your growth
Learn practical ways to flip fear-driven thoughts and confidently take the next steps in your business, from raising your prices to testing new offers and building financial stability
Discover how to create a supportive ecosystem of peers, mentors and experts online and in person, who will push you forward, keep you accountable and normalise success and profitability

Krystle is a chartered accountant, behavioural change expert and dynamic speaker dedicated to helping individuals and organisations unlock their unique value, build confidence and foster financial and economic resilience. With over a decade of experience in financial leadership within creative industries, she blends behavioural science, financial strategy and psychology to drive transformative action.
If you have any questions you’d like Krystle 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.

BIG Networking for Small Businesses
2025-03-21 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
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 networking event, ever!

At this event :
What can you expect at our BIG networking event? You’ll have the opportunity to network with entrepreneurs in small breakout rooms, and we’ll be joined by some brilliant guests to share their experiences and tips for achieving great business growth.

Hosts

David Bell
FSB East of England Regional Chair,
Founder and CEO of Simboc Ltd
Pauline Weddell
FSB Scotland Regional Chair,
Founder of Learn to Grow Ltd

Speakers
To be announced.
Our BIG networking event always proves popular and places are strictly limited. To make sure you don’t miss out, we recommend you book your free space early.
If our event capacity is reached, you may be added to a waiting list. You will then be notified should a place become free.

Event contact
For help and support regarding this event, please telephone our dedicated events helpline 01253 336028 or email csdeventsupport@fsb.org.uk

Neurodiversity in the Workplace Webinar
2025-03-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Did you know that an estimated 1 in 7 people in the UK are neurodivergent? This means many organisations already employ individuals with neurodivergent conditions or are likely to in the future. Ensuring your workplace is inclusive and supportive of neurodiverse talent is not only the right thing to do but also essential for compliance with employment law and fostering a more innovative and productive workforce.
Specialist employment solicitor, Charlotte Holman, from Holmes & Hills Solicitors, will provide expert insights to deepen your understanding of neurodiversity and share actionable guidance on creating a more inclusive workplace for neurodivergent employees.
What you will learn:

What Neurodiversity is and the range of neurodivergent conditions
Why awareness is important for employers – exploring the legal duties and risks
Practical steps for employers to support neurodivergent employees in the workplace
Real-world insights including Employment Tribunal case examples

Who should attend?
This webinar is designed for HR professionals, managers, business owners, and anyone responsible for ensuring compliance with employment law or fostering inclusivity in the workplace. Whether you are seeking to improve your organisation’s support for neurodivergent employees or want to better understand your legal obligations, this session will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need.

Cyber Smart Essentials for Businesses
2025-03-19 10:00 - 12:00 | Launchpad Southend, Launchpad Airport Business Park, Rochford, SS4 1YH
Hear from experts – Essex Police’s Business Crime and Cyber Prevent Team and ESRC take part in a special Cyber Escape Room challenge and Q&A.
From banking, shopping, ordering, deliveries and significant business activities through streaming to social media, businesses, organisations and people are spending more time than ever online.
Cyber security is an important part of daily life, whether you’re connecting to public WiFi hotspots or scrolling through social media. As such, it’s important to learn all that you can so that you can keep yourself, your business, your money, treasured memories, family and friends safe.
in this free session you can hear from experts from Essex Police’s Business Crime and Cyber Prevent Team, Eastern Cyber Sercurity and Resilience Team, take part in a special Cyber Escape Room challenge, and participate in a Q&A session at the end.

Rochford and Southend Networking Breakfast in Collaboration with The Launchpad 202503
2025-03-19 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.

Networking with the Radisson Blu Hotel & MAG London Stansted Airport
2025-03-18 16:00 - 18:30 | Radission Blu Hotel, London Stansted Airport, Waltham Close, Stanstead, Essex, CM24 1PP
oin us at the Radisson Blu Stansted for our Networking Event Featuring MAG London Stansted Airport’s Growth Update
Set in the iconic Radisson Blu, located at London Stansted Airport, this networking event brings together professionals from diverse industries for an evening of collaboration, insight, and opportunity.
This special event will feature MAG London Stansted Airport’s Chief Asset and Development Director, Mike Hardaker, as the keynote guest speaker. Mike will present an engaging talk on the airports plans for growth, offering valuable perspectives on the future of one of the UK’s leading airports.
There will also be an interactive Q&A session where you will have the unique opportunity to ask questions directly to Mike Hardaker about the airports projects and business opportunities.
During the event, attendees will enjoy refreshments, themed buffet dinner and Cocktail Bar, with stunning views of the hotel’s renowned Wine Tower. There will also be the opportunity to tour the hotels amazing corporate facilities.
Whether you’re looking to grow your business network, exchange ideas, or stay ahead of industry trends, this event is your gateway to new opportunities.
Date: Tuesday 18 March 4.00pm – 6.30pm
Venue: Radisson Blu Hotel. London Stansted Airport, Waltham Close, Stansted CM24 1PP
Costs to attend: Members £30.00 + VAT Non Members £50 + VAT
Only TWO attendees per Company
Event Agenda – Subject to change
• 4.00pm – Registration, refreshments & networkin
• 4.30pm – Welcome from Essex Chambers
• 4.35pm – Welcome from Radisson Blu
• 4.40pm – Presentation from MAG LSA & Q&A session
• 5.20pm – Buffet and networking
• 5.45pm – Tours of the hotel facilities
• 6.30pm – Event ends

Mike Hardaker is the Chief Asset and Development Director at Manchester Airport Group (MAG) London Stansted Airport. He has responsibility for capital spend and infrastructure development at the airport. This is a critical role for the airport and for the region’s growth – following Manchester Airport Group’s £1.1bn capital investment announcement earlier this year, which will help the airport facilitate its continuing growth in passenger numbers.
Before joining MAG Mike was the Major Projects Director for Transport for London and spent 10 years in the Middle East with Dubai Airports as Development Director.

Essex Manufacturing Alliance Networking
2025-03-18 10:00 - 13:00 | The Forum, The Forum, Elmer Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Select a State or Province:, SS1 1NS, United Kingdom
Join the Essex Manufacturing Alliance Networking Event!
Are you part of the manufacturing supply chain in Essex? Don’t miss the chance to connect, collaborate, and grow with fellow professionals at our upcoming Essex Manufacturing Alliance Networking Event!
Date: Tuesday 18th March 2025
Time: 10am – 1pm
Location: Southend Forum, Elmer Square, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1NS
Cost: FREE
This event is designed to bring together businesses from every corner of the manufacturing sector – whether you’re involved in production, logistics, supply, or any other part of the chain. We aim to create an environment for collaboration and strengthen connections between local manufacturers, suppliers, and innovators.

Why Attend?
Collaborate: Discover opportunities to partner with other businesses in the Essex region.
Share Challenges: Discuss common challenges in manufacturing, and explore solutions with like-minded professionals.
Expand Your Network: Build lasting relationships across the industry to drive mutual growth and success.
Hear from Experienced Business Leaders: Listen to our speakers talk through their key challenges and solutions
Developing Talent and Skills: Hands-on support to develop people and skills plans and connections, enhancing capability within your team.

Who Should Attend?
Manufacturers, suppliers, logistics providers, engineers, and anyone within the Essex manufacturing ecosystem.
Join us to build a stronger, more connected manufacturing community.
This event is brought to you by Ambitious Essex, Backing Essex Business, and Business on Sea.

Check out our Southend Business Networking Events schedule for 2025 We meet every other week from 7am till 9am at the Launchpad
2025-03-18 07:00 - 09:00 | Launchpad Southend, Launchpad Airport Business Park, Rochford, SS4 1YH
We love welcoming new faces! Non-members are invited to book a guest ticket and experience our meetings firsthand. You can visit up to three times before deciding to join EBN as a member—plenty of chances to connect, collaborate, and see if we’re the right fit for you!

South Essex Business Expo
2025-03-13 10:00 - 15:00 | The Brentwood Centre, Doddinghurst Road, Pilgrims Hatch, Essex, CM15 9NN, United Kingdom
The South Essex Business Expo 13th March 2025
We are really pleased to announce a partnership with Global, DS Group and Networking Essex, we hope to achieve a bigger and better expo than last year at the Brentwood Centre on 13th March between 10am-3pm with 200 stands and 1000 visitors.
The expo will be promoted by all our partners to their databases, social media, newsletters and in the case of Global we’ll be on Heart radio again leading up to the event. We intend to make every business in Essex aware of the expo and make it a must attend event.
This event is open to all businesses of all sizes, trades, industries, professions and sectors, start ups and pre start ups with something for everyone.
The expo is free to attend with plenty of free parking at the Brentwood centre, to book your place please visit www.networking-essex.co.uk and if you would like to exhibit, please email aaron@networking-essex.co.uk

A Guide to Meta Business Suite for Facebook & Instagram Workshop
2025-03-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
When navigating the Meta Business Suite, it can become overwhelming when trying to find your way around the platform, especially when it comes to placing ads and sponsoring posts or boosts.
Not many of us have the budget to hire dedicated staff or third-party agencies to run our account so practical knowledge and skills are vital when we have limited time and resources.
Join us for an informative and practical workshop which will provide an interactive overview of how to best utilise the Meta Business Suite platform and its advanced features to truly deliver for your organisation.
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:
• Introduction to the interface
• How Facebook adverts can work for ANY budget
• Different types of ads and outcomes
• Boosts v Ads campaigns
• From basic to advanced targeting
• Creating high quality promotional materials
• Linking Facebook ads with your website
• Ad rejections and how to handle them
• Trolls, bots and spam messages and the best way to deal with them
• Insights, scheduling and reporting.
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 and/or Instagram, 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 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.
SRX’s 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.

Essex Build 2025
2025-03-13 08:45 - 15:00 | Hylands House, London Road, Writtle, Essex, CM2 8WQ
About this event

Join Essex Construction Alliance for Essex Build 2025, a first event of its kind for Essex, this spring.
Essex Build 2025 is your one-stop show to network with key buyers, learn about Essex project opportunities and acquire valuable new business leads.
The event will bring together Tier 1 and Tier 2 contractors with the region’s best in class main contractors, specialist sub-contractors, Contech developers, suppliers and more.
Taking place at Hylands House in Chelmsford on Thursday 13 March, the event will showcase cutting-edge construction technologies, sustainable building solutions, and the latest industry trends.
With the support of key partners – CITB, Federation of Master Builders, Attract & Engage and Constructing Excellence – the event promises to offer fantastic networking opportunities for businesses leading the way in the construction sector.​
There will also be a full programme of workshops and presentations across the day.
We cannot wait to welcome construction businesses from across Essex to what will be Essex Construction Alliance’s biggest event yet.
Keep an eye on this page for updates on the programme.
Highlights of the day will include:
🛠 Panel discussions
🛠 Key industry knowledge workshops and presentations from sector experts
🛠 Meet the Buyer sessions
🛠 Live demonstrations of the latest construction advancements
🛠 Business growth opportunities
🛠 Exhibitors including Tier 1 & 2 contractors, specialist sub-contractors, materials suppliers and service providers
🛠 Networking opportunities with industry professionals, government officials, procurement teams, and potential clients

Supercharge Your Sales Process with AI
2025-03-12 15:00 - 16:00 | Online
Welcome to Supercharge Your Sales with AI!
Discover how to work smarter, not harder, by unlocking the power of AI in your sales process. Imagine crafting personalized emails in seconds, predicting customer needs with ease, and automating your follow-ups — all with the help of AI. This isn’t about replacing salespeople; it’s about giving you the tools to become more effective, efficient, and impactful.
Join us to learn practical AI strategies you can implement right now to supercharge your sales funnel, maximize productivity, and close more deals. Whether you’re a sales pro or a business owner, this course will change the way you think about sales forever.
Sales Geek is a global sales trainer. We provide expert training in Sales and business growth across the UK, USA, and India, as well as Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and Europe. We work with SMEs and large corporate clients, including Royal Mail, IAG Cargo, Panasonic, Simply Health, Pleo and Verastar.
Join our webinar to learn how AI can maximise your business growth.

March Virtual Networking
2025-03-12 10:00 - 11:30 | Online
Don’t miss the opportunity to connect with industry experts, share your insights, and grow your network at our upcoming virtual networking session.
These popular, friendly morning events provide an informal yet impactful way to gain deeper insights into the Essex business landscape while forming valuable new relationships. With interactive breakout rooms, you’ll have the chance to reconnect with familiar faces and meet new contacts in a relaxed and engaging environment.
Remember, your network is your net worth. Take this opportunity to build meaningful connections and discover opportunities to help your business thrive. We can’t wait to see you there!

Women in Business Bi-monthly National Networking
2025-03-12 10:00 - 11:15 | Online
Event details
This is a regular opportunity to bring together Women led businesses to network together, advise each other and build up contacts across the whole of the UK.
These female focused events are a great option for those new to networking and looking for a friendly place to start, but also great for those with more networking experience who would like to grow their contacts within a community of inspiring business women.
This bi-monthly online networking session will open with a warm welcome and a breakout room, feature a 15 to 20 minute discussion by Women in Business, before we go into two more breakout rooms where you can network with one another in a friendly and supportive environment.
Host

Judith Rafferty, Copywriter & Content Strategist, Fruition Copywriting.
She describes herself as “your next copywriter and secret business building weapon, crafting clear, plucky, heart-centred words that shine during uncertain times – or at any time”!
After 25+ years in-house, on the agency side, and as a freelancer in hospitality, events and travel trade sales, she returned to her original childhood calling – words. She has helped hundreds of small (and global) businesses generate £££s millions of sales, awareness, engagement and visibility.

Guest speaker

Amanda Daniels-Allen Business Mentor & International Speaker, Koogar : Marketing & Alignment
Koogar goes beyond just marketing, recognising there’s much more to it. Focusing on you, what you want to achieve, how you fit into your business, how your business fits into the world, because it is all connected.

These virtual networking meetings are part of the FSB’s ongoing campaign which aims to encourage inclusive, supportive workplaces and offer advice for the country’s army of female entrepreneurs.
This free #FSBConnectOnline networking is open to all businesses – both FSB members and non-members are welcome to attend, so please feel free to share with your networks.
Please note that captions will automatically be enabled for this virtual networking event.
The next event: Women in Business Bi-monthly National Networking will be held on Wednesday 14 May 2025.
Event contact
For further details regarding this event, or if you’re interested in learning about how FSB benefits can assist you and your business, or if you’re already an FSB member and wish to participate as a guest speaker at a local networking event, please contact Natalie.Simm@fsb.org.uk
For general enquiries regarding the event, please telephone FSB Customer Services on 01253 336028 (Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm), or email csdeventsupport@fsb.org.uk

Navigating the Business Landscape: from Start Up to SME
2025-03-11 10:00 - 2025-03-12 13:00 | Online
Join us for an interactive workshop designed to help businesses at every stage of their journey, from start-up to small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs). Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale, this webinar will equip you with the insights, strategies, and tools needed to thrive in today’s competitive market.

Event details:
Date: Tuesday 11th & Wednesday 12th March 2025
Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
Location: Online (ZOOM)
For: Businesses based in Essex

No matter where you are on your business journey, this workshop will support you in navigating your:
Competitive Landscape: Understand how to identify your unique selling points (USPs) and differentiate yourself from competitors.
Business Model Options: Explore innovative ways to optimize your revenue streams and enhance profitability.
Marketing Effectiveness: Pinpoint the most effective channels for reaching your target audience and maximizing marketing ROI.
Scaling for Success: Learn how to create the right conditions to launch new products, services, and expand your business.
Unlock the tools to navigate your business challenges and scale with confidence!

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. This workshop is available to businesses within Essex, excluding Southend and Thurrock.
For more information visit https: www.backingessexbusiness.co.uk

International Women's Day Celebration at Metrobank, Southend
2025-03-08 10:00 - 12:00 | Metro Bank, G19-G21 Victoria Business Centre, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 2NG
Welcome to the International Women’s Day Celebration at Metrobank, Southend!
Winning Women and Metrobank welcome you to a morning of celebration and fun, appreciating and celebrating ourselves and women worldwide.
Saturday 8 March, 10am til 12 noon!
Feel free to wear national costume, bring food from your country, whatever fits! Performers welcome! Do bring your children too.
Free event but please bring some cash as we will offer an opportunity to win prizes in aid of the Mumba Children’s Project who support the growth and education of women, girls and all underprivileged, mainly but not exclusively in Zambia.
Contact Ashlea Cole, Metrobank Business Manager with any queries 07815506784.
Metro Bank are committed to being a part of the local community. Bringing together local businesses and non profits. To accelerate the sense of community with Southend.
Come and join us!
Women have come such a long way but this years’ theme is #Accelerate Action, to help women worldwide gain equality much more rapidly.

How CRM adoption can increase sales!
2025-03-07 11:30 - 13:00 | Online
This 90-minute session is designed to help small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) unlock the full potential of Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems to drive sales growth. We’ll dive into the key strategies and actionable steps required to implement a successful CRM strategy.
In a small event with a maximum of 12 participants, Anna will help you discover the power of your CRM!

Topics covered include:

Why CRM adoption is crucial for increasing sales.
How CRM provides insights into customer behavior and optimises sales processes.
Best practices for onboarding teams and ensuring user adoption.
How to integrate CRM systems with existing tools like accounting software, marketing platforms, and customer support systems.
Streamlining data flow across departments to improve decision-making and collaboration.
Proven methods to encourage team buy-in and consistent usage.
Overcoming common challenges SMEs face when adopting a CRM system.
Measuring the ROI of your CRM system.

The session is part 2 of 2 sessions.
By the end of this session, attendees will have a clear understanding of how to implement a CRM strategy that aligns with your business goals, ensures team engagement, and drives measurable sales results.
The sessions are targeted towards businesses with more than 10 employee’s and individuals in management level roles for either the organisation or the sales and marketing functions.

More about Anna: Anna is a highly experienced communications specialist providing strategic digital marketing that works!
“With over 10 years’ worth of experience in the marketing industry, I’ve had the pleasure of working in various roles, including magazine editor, content marketer, outreach manager and managing director. What’s more, I’m lucky to have worked in both agency and in-house positions, which has given me a great understanding of how both sides work.“
Anna is the founder of Quibble. Quibble provides a wide range of digital marketing services to businesses of all sizes both in the UK and abroad.
