Launchpad Southend

Are you protected from Cybercrime Workshop?
2026-03-19 10:00 - 12:00 UTC | The Innovation Centre, Knowledge Gateway, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3ZQ
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.
An unmissable opportunity to hear from cyber experts who see the devastation cybercrime can visit upon unwitting business owners and their staff.
Experts from Essex Police will explain cyber security best practices, outlining potential threats and empowering businesses to take steps to prevent or report cybercrime.
In this workshop you can hear from experts from Essex Police’s Business Crime and Cyber Prevent Team, will have the opportunity to take part in a special Cyber Escape Room challenge, an Open Source Intelligence demo, using standard tools to research a target and participate in a Q&A session at the end.
This session is designed to:
• Help you understand the potential threats, vulnerabilities and mitigations
• Provide you with the knowledge and tools to protect yourself and your organisation
Date: Thursday 19 March 10.00am – 12.00pm
Venue: The Innovation Centre, Knowledge Gateway, Boundary Road, Colchester, CO4 3ZQ
Cost to attend: Free for Members Non-Members £45.00 + VAT

Unlocking Grant Funding - Innovate & Elevate Rochford
2026-03-19 10:30 - 12:30 | Rayleigh Club, Hullbridge Road, Rayleigh, Essex, SS69QS
Looking to fund your business idea or take your early-stage venture to the next level? Join us for our Unlocking Grant Funding Workshop, a practical and informative session designed to help businesses access grant funding with confidence.
This workshop will guide you through where and how to find relevant grant opportunities, what funders are really looking for, and how to create a strong, compelling grant application. You’ll gain practical insights into eligibility requirements, common pitfalls to avoid, and how to clearly communicate your business vision and impact.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking for funding to grow, this workshop will give you the knowledge and tools you need to unlock new funding opportunities.

Event details:
Date: Thursday 19th March 2026
Time: 10.30am – 12.30pm
Location: The Rayleigh Club, Hullbridge Road, Rayleigh, SS6 9QS

Eligibility:

Living/business based in Rochford District

The Innovate and Elevate Rochford District Programme is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) is a UK Government initiative providing funding for local investments to support the government’s five national missions, including economic growth, making the UK a clean energy superpower, and breaking down barriers to opportunity. UKSPF supports local projects focused on communities and place, supporting local businesses, and people and skills. For more information, visit https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/uk-shared-prosperity-fund-prospectus
This popular programme is delivered by Let’s Do Business Group.

Essex Manufacturing Alliance Roundtable FRIDAY 20th March 2026
2026-03-20 09:30 - 12:30 | Corporate Suite, Anglia Ruskin University, Bishop Hall Ln, Chelmsford CM1 1SQ, Bishop Hall Lane, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1SQ, United Kingdom
We are delighted to invite you to an Essex Manufacturing Alliance Roundtable taking place at:
Venue: Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) – Corporate Suite
Address: Bishop Hall Lane, Chelmsford, CM1 1SQ
Date: Friday 20 March 2026
Time: 09:30 – 12:30 (followed by networking and refreshments)
This is not just a discussion – it’s about mobilising real action and getting the Alliance fully up and running for 2026. Your insights will directly shape how we tackle the sector’s biggest priorities and deliver meaningful support for Essex manufacturers.
We will focus on key themes including:

Emerging trends in manufacturing
Skills and the future talent pipeline
Growth and sustainability opportunities

Spaces are limited, so presently it is one ticket per organisation – please confirm your attendance by email to Emma.Curtis@essex.gov.uk by 30th January 2026.
This is your chance to influence the direction of the Essex Manufacturing Alliance and ensure it delivers real value for your business and the wider sector.
We look forward to working with you to turn ideas into action.

Penguin Random House Networking Tour
2026-03-26 11:00 - 13:45 | Penguin Random House UK, Colchester Road, Frating Colchester, CO7 7DW, United Kingdom
Back by Popular Demand – Exclusive Members Only Networking Event & Site Tour at Penguin Random House Distribution
Following the outstanding success of last year’s visit, we are delighted to invite Members once again to an exclusive Networking Event and Site Tour at Penguin Random House Distribution (PRHD) in Colchester.
Are you looking to broaden your professional network while gaining rare behind-the-scenes access to one of the world’s most influential publishing organisations? This special event offers the perfect opportunity.
As one of the UK’s largest and most respected book distributors, PRHD is once again opening its doors to Essex Chambers Members for an immersive experience inside their state-of-the-art Colchester facilities. This visit will provide an updated, firsthand look at the innovations and operations powering global book distribution today.
Attendees will enjoy a unique opportunity to explore PRHD’s advanced logistics systems and discover how millions of books are processed, packed, and dispatched every year to retailers and readers worldwide. Whether you attended last year or are joining for the first time, the tour promises fresh insights into the ever-evolving world of publishing and distribution.
Join us for:
Networking Opportunities: Connect with professionals from across Essex, exchange ideas, and build new relationships in a dynamic and engaging environment.
Exclusive Insights from PRHD Experts: Hear directly from industry specialists about the latest developments, challenges, and innovations shaping book distribution today.
Guided Tour of PRHD Facilities: Go behind the scenes at one of the UK’s premier distribution centres and gain an up-to-date look at the sophisticated processes behind global publishing logistics.
This event is ideal for professionals with an interest in publishing, supply chain logistics, operational excellence, or anyone curious about the intricate systems that keep the world’s books moving.

Date: Thursday 26 March 11.00am – 1.45pm
Venue: Penguin Random House UK Colchester Road, Frating, Colchester, Essex CO7 7DW
Costs to attend: Members Early-Bird £25.00 + VAT | Members Standard £30.00 + VAT
Only TWO attendees per Company

Member Early Bird bookings close on 12 February 2026, any tickets booked after this time will be at full price.
Agenda: Subject to change
11:00am – Registration and Networking
11:40am – Welcome from Essex Chamber
11.45am – Presentation from Penguin Random House
11.55pm – Tours Commence
12:40pm – Lunch & Networking
1:45pm – Event ends

Social Media Advanced: Paid Ads on Facebook & Instagram
2026-03-31 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
Use paid social media advertising to reach the right audience, drive traffic, and achieve real business results – without wasting money on ineffective ads.

Many small business owners struggle with paid campaigns because they run ads without a clear strategy, leaving them frustrated when results don’t match their expectations.

This workshop focuses on equipping you with strategies for paid social media campaigns that actually deliver. You’ll discover how to target the right audience, craft compelling ad content, and measure performance effectively. By the end, you’ll have practical skills and the confidence to turn paid social media ads into a powerful growth tool for your business.

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

What You’ll Learn:

Building a Strong Foundation: Understand the fundamentals of paid social media advertising, including campaign objectives, ad formats, and targeting options.

Defining Your Audience: Learn how to identify your ideal customers and use tools like custom audiences, lookalike audiences, and retargeting to reach them.

Creating Engaging Ads: Explore techniques for writing persuasive copy and designing eye-catching graphics using tools like Canva that drive clicks and conversions.

Setting Up Campaigns: Get hands-on guidance on creating and launching campaigns in Facebook Ads Manager, including ad placement, budget allocation, and bidding strategies.

Monitoring & Optimising Performance: Learn how to track key metrics, analyse results, and adjust campaigns to improve ROI and achieve better outcomes.

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

Kerry Madge is a creative and hands-on Marketing Executive at Let’s Do Marketing, bringing nearly six years of experience helping businesses grow through social media. With a BA in Marketing Management, she specialises in social media advertising, content creation, and graphic design, turning ideas into engaging posts that capture attention and drive results.

Kerry’s passion is helping small businesses navigate the world of paid social media with confidence. She loves developing practical strategies, crafting ads that connect with the right audience, and showing businesses how to use platforms like Facebook and Instagram to drive traffic, leads, and sales.

Privacy Notice
By registering for this event, you agree to Let’s Do Business Group processing and managing your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Your data will only be used for the purposes of managing your event registration and any relevant communications.

Breaking Down the Basics of SEO
2026-04-09 10:00 - 12:00 | Online
Get your business found online by the people who need you most.
Tired of feeling like your website is invisible? You’re not alone. Many small business owners put time and effort into building their website but still struggle to show up in search results.
This workshop will help you fix that. You’ll learn simple, practical SEO strategies that bring more visitors to your site, attract your ideal customers, and help your business grow. We’ll break down the jargon, showing you how to optimise your website, create content that ranks, and use free tools to see what’s working.
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to make your business more visible online — and feel confident doing it yourself.

Southend/Rochford Business Breakfast Networking
2026-04-15 08:00 - 10:00 | Launchpad Southend, Launchpad Airport Business Park, Rochford, SS4 1YH
The next Southend/Rochford Business Breakfast Networking event, in collaboration with the Launchpad, Airport Business Park, Cherry Orchard Way, Rochford, SS4 1YH Essex.
If you fancy meeting like-minded businesspeople, grow your connections that could lead to collaborations and growth for your business then come along to the Breakfast networking from 8.00-10.00am
Come and meet fellow Essex business owners from all sectors of industry and network in a friendly environment. With the added benefit of a buffet breakfast with bottomless coffee or tea. Members and non-members are welcome, we are neither a lock out, all businesses are welcome or a group where referrals are required, just bring your business cards.

Strategies for Successful Email Marketing
2026-04-15 09:30 - 12:00 | Essex
Learn how email marketing can help your business grow.
Ever feel like your emails just aren’t getting noticed? You’re not alone! Many small business owners send out emails but aren’t sure how to make them really work.
In this workshop, you’ll learn the basics of email marketing — how to write messages people actually want to read, send them to the right people, and see what’s working (and what’s not).
We’ll cover simple, practical steps to help you:

Get started in collecting data

Creating emails that connect with your audience

Share updates, offers, or stories that keep people interested

Use easy tools to send and track your emails

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Using Canva to Create Content
2026-04-22 13:00 - 14:30 | Online
Learn how to design eye-catching graphics that elevate your brand and engage your audience without needing a design degree or expensive software, with this beginners guide to using Canva!
Struggling to create professional-looking visuals for your business? Many small business owners find themselves overwhelmed by design tools or rely on costly designers for every project. Introducing Canva – your key to success (and less stress!)
In this workshop we’ll be looking at the potential for our business by using Canva – and you’ll learn how to navigate the platform, design with purpose and ease, and maintain brand consistency to captivate your customers and build marketing materials that help you to reach your business goals. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and skills to produce high-quality visuals that resonate with your audience, put your best foot forward, and unlock new possibilities for your marketing!
What You’ll Learn:

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

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

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

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

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

YES Network Mix 'n' Match Speed Networking
2026-04-23 18:00 - 21:00 | Bunker 19 13 Alexandra Street Southend-on-Sea SS1 1BX, 13 Alexandra Street, Southend On Sea, Essex, SS1 1BX
High‑energy networking with a twist: fast connections,Guest speaker Michael, burritos, and optional golf. Meet great people and have fun.

6:00 – 6:30 PM | Arrival & Welcome
Guests arrive, register, grab a drink, and start informal networking.
6:30 – 6:40 PM | Opening Remarks (Tak / Host)
A short introduction to welcome everyone and explain the plan for the evening and what we’re aiming to achieve.
6:40 – 7:20 PM | Speed Networking – “With a Twist”
Structured speed networking where attendees rotate and meet multiple people quickly. The twist element will help make the conversations more engaging and fun.
7:20 – 7:25 PM | Introduction of Guest Speaker
Short introduction for our guest speaker, Michael.
7:25 – 7:50 PM | Guest Speaker Talk – Michael
Michael delivers his talk to the group.
7:50 – 8:00 PM | Food Break – Troy’s Burritos
We hand out the burritos and give people a short break.
8:00 – 9:00 PM | Open Networking & Golf
Free networking time for everyone to continue conversations, with the option to play some golf as well.

Business Confidence for Disabled and Neurodivergent Founders
2026-04-28 10:00 - 23:00 | Online
Please join Small Business Britain and Lloyds Bank for a LILAC Centre webinar.
‘Business Confidence for Disabled and Neurodivergent Founders’ will be presented by Suzi Payton. You can register now to join this free, one-hour online session.
Date: Tuesday 28th April
Time: 10.00am – 11.00am
Location: Online via Zoom
Suzi is a late-diagnosed ADHD and autistic speaker, comedian and coach, helping neurodivergent individuals embrace their true selves with confidence and authenticity.
Through a mix of coaching and optional comedy, she empowers people to feel in control and unapologetic. Drawing on her lived experience, Suzi delivers inspiring and humorous talks that raise awareness of ADHD and autism.

How to take back your time with AI-powered tools | Lunch and Learn
2026-04-29 12:00 - 12:30 | online workshop
In this Lunch and Learn, Dropbox’s Andy Wilson and Reclaim.ai’s Elizabeth Werdnik will explore how small businesses can boost productivity and take control of their time using AI-powered tools.
Many AI solutions promise efficiency, but the real value comes from tools that understand how you work.
Andy will share how AI can help cut through the noise by automating tasks, surfacing relevant insights, and freeing up time for more strategic and creative work. He will also demonstrate how Dropbox Dash, an AI-powered universal search tool, helps teams find, organise, and secure company information more efficiently, accelerating the journey from finding information to creating and acting upon it.
Andy will also be joined by Elizabeth Werdnik from Reclaim.ai, who will share how AI-powered scheduling can help teams better manage their time, protect focus, and optimise daily workflows.
Join us to learn how Dropbox and Reclaim.ai can work together to improve workflow efficiency and productivity, with opportunities for discussion, audience participation, and questions throughout.
If you have any questions you’d like Andy and Elizabeth 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.

Lunch & Learn Webinar: Why ESG is Good For Business and the Planet
2026-04-29 12:30 - 13:00 | Online
Join the experts at Positive Planet to understand why ESG is good for the planet and good for business.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) is rapidly becoming a core business priority, not just for large corporates, but increasingly for SMEs. This lunch & learn webinar provides a practical introduction to ESG, breaking down its key phases from materiality assessment through to strategy development and effective reporting.
We will explore why ESG data requests are accelerating across supply chains, driven by investors, regulators, and larger organisations, and what this means for smaller businesses. Beyond compliance, the session will highlight how ESG can be used as a genuine competitive advantage, introducing five key levers that can unlock strategic value, from cost savings and risk management to revenue growth and brand differentiation.
Finally, we will cover clear, actionable steps to help you get started on your ESG journey, ensuring you can respond confidently to stakeholder demands while building long term business resilience.

First steps for implementing AI into your business | Lunch and Learn
2026-04-30 12:00 - 12:30 | online workshop
Heard everyone talking about AI but still aren’t sure what it actually means for your business?
Have you tried a tool or two, felt quietly underwhelmed and wondered if you’re missing something obvious?
In this Lunch and Learn, Charlotte Boundy explains how to start using AI and automation in a way that’s practical, clear and specific to how your small business works.
It’s a hands-on session where you’ll see automation working in real time, interact with it live and leave with a clear picture of where to focus first in your own business.
The tools exist – the question is knowing which ones are right for you.
Topics covered in this session

How to identify the tasks in your business that are ready to automate right now

Where you could be saving the most time and money with AI

How to choose the right AI tools for your business without wasting time on the wrong ones

About the speaker
Charlotte has spent 12 years working in business operations, first in London and then building Bright Spark Collective from the ground up during COVID.
In that time, she’s worked with close to 100 UK founders across a wide range of industries, helping them build businesses that run more smoothly and demand less of them personally.
If you have any questions you’d like Charlotte 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.

Understanding and Developing a Marketing Strategy
2026-05-05 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
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.
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.

Making your business visible in an AI-powered world
2026-05-06 02:00 - 15:00 | online workshop
Your customers are still searching. They’re just not searching the way they used to.
AI tools like ChatGPT, Claude, Google’s AI Overviews and voice assistants have quietly changed how people discover businesses, products and services. And most small business owners have no idea it’s happening.
Fortunately, you don’t need a big budget or tech team to fix it. You just need to know where to show up and how.
In this practical Tech Hub webinar, certified Google and Meta trainer Padebi Ojomo walks you through five clear, actionable steps to make your business discoverable in an AI-powered world.
You’ll get a straight answer to the question every small business owner should be asking right now – when an AI tool recommends a business like mine, will it recommend me?
What you’ll learn

Why AI search is different from traditional Google search and what that means for your business

The simple content changes that make AI tools more likely to surface your business

How to audit your current online presence for AI visibility in under 30 minutes

Which free and low-cost tools actually help (and which ones to ignore)

Your personalised next step based on where your business is right now

Who should attend

Early stage e-commerce founders launching or growing their first online store

Product-based businesses planning to scale their brand in the future

Founders who want to prepare their e-commerce brand for paid marketing and growth strategies

About the speaker
Padebi is a certified Google and Meta trainer based in Milton Keynes, specialising in practical AI adoption for small business owners.
She’s trained over 24,000 entrepreneurs across 17 countries through Meta’s official programmes. She’s the founder of The GPT Club and holds the UK Global Talent Award for her work in digital technology.
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 Tech Hub
A collaboration between Google and Sage and built by Enterprise Nation, Tech Hub offers an accessible solution to support small businesses to adopt the technology they need to run and grow their ventures.

Action Hour: The Creative Leader – UK–USA Special
2026-05-06 16:00 - 17:00 | Webinar
On 6th May at 4:00 PM, I’ll be joining Stefan Mumaw (TEDx Speaker, LinkedIn Learning Author & bestselling writer) for a special UK–USA collaboration:
✨ Action Hour: The Creative Leader – UK–USA Special ✨
We’ll be diving into creativity in leadership, how to bring ideas to life in organisations, and how leaders can inspire cultures of innovation. It’s going to be practical, energising, and honestly… such a fun session to deliver.
Here’s the link to join us:
👉 Register here: https://seats.org.uk/event/action-hour-the-creative-leader-uk-usa-special/
I would really love to see you there; your presence would mean a lot.
If you know anyone else who would benefit from this session, please do pass along the invite (attached). The more creative minds in the room, the better!

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

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

Why branding matters for founders in 2026

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

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

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

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

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

How to translate your brand positioning into professional visual assets

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

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

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

Networking at The Minories
2026-05-12 16:00 - 18:00 | The Minories, 74 High St, Colchester CO1 1UE, 74 High St, Colchester, CO1 1UE
Join us for an inspiring and unique business networking event at The Minories, an iconic and historic gallery in the heart of Colchester. Housed in a Georgian townhouse with a rich artistic heritage, The Minories has long been a cultural hub where art, history, and community come together.
You will hear from Director, Emma Howe, about how The Minories bridges the worlds of art and business, with insights into the venue’s history, its role in the community, and its current exhibition, setting the stage for the guided tours.

You will also hear about the upcoming exhibition, Out of Line: Banksy and the Art of Dissent, a major co-produced showcase exploring the work and cultural impact of Banksy. This highly anticipated exhibition reflects the gallery’s ambitious and collaborative approach, positioning it at the forefront of engaging, socially relevant programming.
Guided tours of the gallery will be available, with the exhibiting artist, Charlotte Bernays, discussing her current work and sharing the inspiration behind their exhibition. Guests will have the opportunity to ask questions, engage with the artist, and explore the gallery’s historic architecture and curated spaces. Networking and refreshments will continue throughout, creating a dynamic environment for conversation, collaboration, and connection.
Date: Tuesday 12 May 4.00pm – 6.00pm
Venue: The Minories, 74 High St, Colchester CO1 1UE
Cost: Members Early-Bird £25.00 + VAT | Members Standard £30.00 + VAT | Non-Members £50.00 + VAT
Only TWO attendees per company
Member Early Bird bookings close on 31 March 2026, any tickets booked after this time will be at full price. Non-Member tickets can be booked once the Member Early Bird offer closes.
Spaces are limited, so secure your place now to make new professional contacts, gain fresh inspiration from the arts, and deepen your appreciation for The Minories’ vital role in fostering creativity and community. TEST.

Agenda: Subject to change
4.00pm – Registration and Networking
4.30pm – Welcome from Essex Chambers
4.35pm – Presentation from The Minories
4.55pm – Tours Commence, Networking & Refreshments
6.00pm – Event ends

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

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

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

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

Introduction to Social Media Marketing
2026-05-13 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
Meet your customers where they are – and make social media work for your business growth!
This Introduction to Social Media Marketing course takes you back to basics – understanding and finding your audience online, and giving you the foundational skills to build a strong online presence that helps your business grow.
This workshop focuses on practical strategies that drive real engagement and business growth. You’ll discover how to choose the right platforms, craft content that resonates, and manage your presence effectively. By the end, you’ll have the skills and confidence to make social media a powerful asset for your business.
What You’ll Learn:

Building a Solid Foundation: Learn the basics of social media marketing, including how to choose the right platforms and set up your profiles for success.

Understanding Your Audience & Strategy: Discover who your ideal audience is, what they care about, and how to plan content that resonates with them.

Crafting Engaging Content: Explore techniques for creating posts, images, and videos that capture attention and encourage interaction.

Scheduling, Automation & Consistency: Learn how to plan and schedule content efficiently, using tools and strategies to maintain a consistent presence.

Growing Your Following & Engagement: Understand how to attract followers organically, encourage engagement, and build relationships with your audience.

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

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

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

How to create content that connects across social media and email

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

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

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

You’ll learn how to:

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

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

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

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

The AI founder marketing stack: Systems, speed and sustainability
2026-05-14 12:00 - 12:30 | Online
Learn how to build a simple, repeatable content system that removes the guesswork from what to post each week.

This is the fourth session in a week-long series of free webinars from Enterprise Nation and Canva, created to help small business founders sharpen their marketing and build stronger brands.
It’s a session about reclaiming your time by moving from manual tasks to smart, automated systems. In this webinar, Tara Elzingre will share the tools and workflows that help solo founders create the output of a full team.
You’ll learn how to build a simple, repeatable content system that removes the guesswork from what to post each week.
Using AI and Canva, you’ll discover how to turn one piece of “hero” content into a full suite of assets across a number of different platforms. By the end, you’ll have a faster, more efficient way to stay consistent without sacrificing quality.
Topics covered in this session

How to repurpose a single idea into newsletters, social posts and video scripts using AI

Setting up templates that help you create professional content in minutes, not hours

How Canva AI can help you scale your content and your business

About the speaker
Tara Elzingre is an AI strategist and digital systems expert, and the founder of Tara Elzingre Consultancy (TEC), a training-led consultancy that helps small businesses and corporate teams unlock serious time, growth and clarity by using AI and automation on purpose.
If you have any questions you’d like Tara 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.

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

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

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

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

Social Media Advanced: Paid Ads on Facebook & Instagram
2026-05-19 10:00 - 13:00 | Online
Use paid social media advertising to reach the right audience, drive traffic, and achieve real business results – without wasting money on ineffective ads.
Many small business owners struggle with paid campaigns because they run ads without a clear strategy, leaving them frustrated when results don’t match their expectations.
This workshop focuses on equipping you with strategies for paid social media campaigns that actually deliver. You’ll discover how to target the right audience, craft compelling ad content, and measure performance effectively. By the end, you’ll have practical skills and the confidence to turn paid social media ads into a powerful growth tool for your business.
What You’ll Learn:

Building a Strong Foundation: Understand the fundamentals of paid social media advertising, including campaign objectives, ad formats, and targeting options.

Defining Your Audience: Learn how to identify your ideal customers and use tools like custom audiences, lookalike audiences, and retargeting to reach them.

Creating Engaging Ads: Explore techniques for writing persuasive copy and designing eye-catching graphics using tools like Canva that drive clicks and conversions.

Setting Up Campaigns: Get hands-on guidance on creating and launching campaigns in Facebook Ads Manager, including ad placement, budget allocation, and bidding strategies.

Monitoring & Optimising Performance: Learn how to track key metrics, analyse results, and adjust campaigns to improve ROI and achieve better outcomes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Twilight Networking at The Warren Estate
2026-06-02 16:30 - 18:30 | The Warren Estate, Woodham Walter, Essex, CM9 6RW
Step away from the office and into the Essex countryside for an evening of relaxed, high-quality networking at the beautiful Warren Estate.
Join us for an evening of meaningful connections at this stunning historic venue, set within 325 acres of picturesque parkland. The Warren Estate provides the perfect backdrop to connect, collaborate and unwind as the day turns to dusk, with elegant event spaces, landscaped gardens and a welcoming atmosphere designed to bring people together.
Attendees will hear from Managing Director, Tim Spencer, who will share a potted history of the estate, offering insight into its evolution along with its charming interiors and scenic outdoor spaces. He will also highlight how The Warren Estate combines character and versatility, making it one of Essex’s most distinctive venues and best kept secret.
Guests will then have the opportunity to take part in guided tours of the venue, offering a closer look at its impressive facilities and beautifully maintained grounds, alongside the chance to experience a golf simulator – providing a relaxed, golf-inspired setting that encourages conversation, connection and a touch of friendly competition.
During the event, a freshly prepared buffet will be served, allowing conversations to continue in a relaxed and sociable setting as the evening light fades and the surroundings become even more atmospheric.
Date: Tuesday 2 June 4.30pm – 6.30pm
Venue: The Warren Estate. Woodham Walter, Essex CM9 6RW
Cost: Members Early-Bird £25.00 + VAT | Members Standard £30.00 + VAT | Non-Members £50.00 + VAT
Only TWO attendees per company
Member Early Bird bookings close on 10 April 2026, any tickets booked after this time will be at full price. Non-Member tickets can be booked once the Member Early Bird offer closes.
This twilight networking event is all about creating connections in a setting that inspires conversation and leaves a lasting impression. Spaces are limited to ensure a high-quality experience, so early booking is recommended.
Agenda
4.30pm – Registration, Networking & Refreshments
5.15pm – Welcome from Essex Chambers
5.20pm – Presentation from The Warren Estate
5.40pm – Tours, Networking & Refreshments
6.30pm – Event Ends

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

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