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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Launchpad Southend
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250501T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250501T110000
DTSTAMP:20260420T073647
CREATED:20250425T103515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T103515Z
UID:1275-1746093600-1746097200@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Devolution for Essex - What you need to know
DESCRIPTION:Big changes are coming to Essex! With Essex selected for the government’s priority programme for devolution and local government reform\, this is a critical moment for businesses\, communities\, and local leaders to understand what’s ahead. \nWhat’s Changing? \n🔹 A new Mayor for Essex – Election set for Spring 2026\n🔹 A strategic authority combining Essex\, Southend & Thurrock\n🔹 Local government restructure – new unitary authorities by 2028\n🔹 A streamlined approach for business and economic growth \nAt the Essex Chambers\, we welcome these changes as they offer greater clarity\, efficiency\, and opportunities for local businesses. But what does it mean for you? Join our webinar to get the insights you need. \nWhy Attend? \n✅ Hear expert analysis on what devolution means for Essex\n✅ Understand how these changes will impact businesses & communities\n✅ Have your questions answered in a live Q&A session \nDate:  Thursday 1 May   10.00am – 11.00am\nPlatform:  Zoom\nCost:  FREE for Members – Non-Members £25.00 + VAT\nStay informed and get ahead of the upcoming changes.
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/devolution-for-essex-what-you-need-to-know/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Learning and development,Online Event,Webinar,Zoom
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250507T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250507T110000
DTSTAMP:20260420T073647
CREATED:20250425T104050Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T104050Z
UID:1277-1746612000-1746615600@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Demystifying AI for Small Businesses- Practical Time-Saving Tools
DESCRIPTION:Join our member Mat Parkins\, founder of The AI Guys\, for a no-nonsense session that cuts through the AI hype and delivers practical solutions for your business. In this 60-minute interactive workshop\, Mat will show you how small businesses can immediately start using AI to slash admin time and boost productivity. \nDrawing from his work helping businesses save hundreds of hours on repetitive tasks\, Mat will walk you through: \n\nSimple AI tools you can implement today (absolutely no coding or experience required)\nReal-world examples of how Chamber members and similar businesses are using AI for customer service\, content creation\, and day-to-day admin\nThe most common mistakes businesses make when first implementing AI (and how to avoid them)\nQuick wins that can give you back multiple hours in your very first week\n\nThis session is perfect for business owners who want to understand how AI can work FOR them\, not replace them. You’ll leave with a clear roadmap of exactly which tools to try first and how to implement them in your specific business. \nForget theoretical tech talk – this is about practical solutions for real business challenges. We’ll have dedicated time for Q&A to address your specific business situations. \nDate:   Wednesday 7 May 10.00am – 11.00am \nVirtual:  Zoom Platform\nCost to attend:  FREE for Members – Non-Members £25.00 + VAT\nPlease note: This event will not be recorded and any material will only be circulated to those that attend \nAbout Mat\nMat Parkins is the founder of The AI Guys\, where he’s on a mission to help businesses work smarter through practical AI solutions. With his background spanning business development\, marketing and web design\, Mat specialises in making complex technology accessible to regular business owners. \nWhen he’s not helping clients automate their businesses\, you’ll find him delivering keynotes speeches or developing training programmes at the University of Essex. His superpower? Taking the confusion out of AI and showing you exactly how to implement it in ways that make immediate sense for your business. \nAbout The AI Guys\nThe AI Guys is an automation agency with an ambitious mission: giving back 1 billion hours to entrepreneurs and their teams by 2045. They focus exclusively on creating practical AI solutions that eliminate repetitive tasks and streamline business processes for companies with revenues between £100K-£2M. \nTheir approach isn’t about replacing people with technology – it’s about freeing up your valuable time to focus on what really matters: growing your business and serving your customers. Through their tailored automation systems\, document processing tools\, and AI-powered workflows\, they’re helping businesses dramatically reduce admin time while improving consistency and customer experience. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nTicket Details
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/demystifying-ai-for-small-businesses-practical-time-saving-tools/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:AI,Learning and development
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250507T120000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250507T153000
DTSTAMP:20260420T073647
CREATED:20250410T134253Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250410T134253Z
UID:1248-1746619200-1746631800@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Ai Simplified: Is your SME ready to harness AI’s transformative power?
DESCRIPTION:Join us at the Innovation Centre\, Knowledge Gateway for an exciting event focused on demystifying AI for small and medium-sized enterprises. \nLearn how AI can revolutionise your business operations and drive growth. Discover practical strategies to implement AI solutions tailored to your SME’s needs. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to unlock the full potential of AI for your business. \nDiscover practical strategies to implement AI solutions tailored to your SME’s needs. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to unlock the full potential of AI for your business. \nSpeakers: \nIngrid Folland CEO Japeto \nLara Fox Director Objective \nMathew Parkins CEO The AI Guys \nDr Spyros Samothrakis Chief Scientific Adviser and Senior Lecturer
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/ai-simplified-is-your-sme-ready-to-harness-ais-transformative-power/
LOCATION:The Innovation Centre\, Knowledge Gateway\, Colchester\, Essex\, CO4 3ZQ
CATEGORIES:AI,Learning and development
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250514T100000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250514T113000
DTSTAMP:20260420T073647
CREATED:20250425T104554Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T104554Z
UID:1279-1747216800-1747222200@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:May Virtual Networking
DESCRIPTION:Expand Your Horizons at Our Virtual Networking Events \nJoin a thriving community of professionals at our renowned Virtual Networking sessions\, where meaningful connections and opportunities await. This month\, take advantage of the power of online networking—connect seamlessly from your desk to build relationships that strengthen Essex’s vibrant business community. \nIn today’s fast-paced world\, connections are more important than ever. These interactive sessions offer a unique platform to engage with a diverse mix of businesses from across the county. With dynamic breakout rooms\, you’ll reconnect with familiar faces and forge new partnerships that could take your career or business to the next level. \nDon’t let this chance pass you by—secure your spot and unlock the full potential of networking\, reimagined for the digital age! \nDate:   Wednesday 14 May 10.00am to 11.30am \nPlatform:   Zoom\nCost:   FREE for Members Non-Members £35.00 + VAT\nOnly TWO attendees per company \nAgenda \n9.50am – Sign into Zoom Meeting\n10.00am – Welcome introduction from a Client Relationship Manager\n10.05am – Networking\n11.30am – Meeting finishes
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/may-virtual-networking/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Networking,Online Event
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250515T093000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250515T143000
DTSTAMP:20260420T073647
CREATED:20250423T101536Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250423T101536Z
UID:1264-1747301400-1747319400@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Green Light: Business Success
DESCRIPTION:Making your business more sustainable is not only good for the planet… it’s good for business! \nJoin us at Green Light: Business Success this May to learn more about how you can increase profit\, save money\, and help you to win work by making your Essex business greener. \nNet zero is being described as the ‘economic opportunity of the 21st century’ and now’s the time to find out how to harness the power of sustainable solutions\, technologies and incentives to level up your business offering\, infrastructure\, efficiency and profitability. \nOur team of expert guest speakers and discussion leaders will offer insights and top tips to guide you in finding the best benefits for you and your business – wherever you are in your green growth journey. \nAll attendees will also have the chance to complete a Carbon Calculation and receive official documentation and a digital badge to confirm and promote your company’s commitment to being a more sustainable business. \nBook your free place today – and please reach out on ambitiousessex@essex.gov.uk with any questions about the event. \n———- \nEvent agenda \nFull presentation and activity schedule to be confirmed\, with topics covered to include: \n\nCarbon Calculation guidance\nNet zero: what is it and what does it mean for your business?\nGreen funding and grants\nProcurement: winning work as a business\nFinding profitability in embracing sustainability\nMarketing and articulating your sustainability\nSustainability action planning\nDemystifying sustainability terms\nHow your business can benefit from the economic opportunities\n\nExhibitor stands will also be in place to share information about the benefits of sustainability for businesses\, practical solutions for your work premises\, available grants and funding and more\, with dedicated time allocated for networking during and after lunch. \n———- \nEvent details \n\nThursday 15 May 2025\n9.30am to 2.30pm\nThe Lion\, Boreham\, Chelmsford CM3 3JA\n\nLunch will be served at roughly 1pm\, and refreshments will be available upon arrival and throughout. \n———- \nBy registering for this event\, you agree to be contacted by Ambitious Essex (part of Essex County Council) about the event and related opportunities. \nPlease note\, filming and photography will be taking place at the event. Photo consent posters will be displayed across the venue. If you do not wish to be captured\, please make yourself known to a member of the team.
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/green-light-business-success/
LOCATION:The Lion\, Boreham\, Chelmsford\, Essex\, CM3 3JA
CATEGORIES:Expo,Learning and development
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250521T163000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250521T183000
DTSTAMP:20260420T073647
CREATED:20250425T102856Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250425T102856Z
UID:1272-1747845000-1747852200@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Network with Wivenhoe House Hotel
DESCRIPTION:Experience sophistication and opportunity at Wivenhoe House Hotel\, where timeless elegance meets meaningful connections in a truly remarkable setting. \nJoin us for an evening of networking with business owners\, entrepreneurs\, and industry leaders in a welcoming yet engaging atmosphere. Forge new relationships\, strengthen existing ones\, and explore exciting collaboration opportunities—all while taking in the beauty of one of Essex’s most exquisite venues\, nestled within the serene parkland of the University of Essex. \nAs a beautifully restored 18th-century country house\, Wivenhoe House seamlessly blends historic charm with modern luxury. During your visit\, you’ll have the chance to explore its stunning event spaces\, boutique accommodations\, and exceptional hospitality—making it an ideal setting for corporate events\, weddings\, and private functions. \nDate:  Wednesday 21 May   4.30pm – 6.30pm\nVenue:  Wivenhoe House Hotel  Wivenhoe Park  Colchester CO4 3FA\nCosts to attend:  Members  £30.00 + VAT  Non Members  £50 + VAT\nOnly TWO attendees per Company \nWhether you’re looking to expand your network\, explore potential business opportunities\, or simply enjoy an inspiring evening in a remarkable setting\, this event is perfect for you. \nAgenda: Subject to change\n4.30pm – Registration\, refreshments & Networking\n5.25pm – Welcome from Essex Chambers\n5.30pm – Welcome from Wivenhoe House Hotel\n5.35pm – Networking\, refreshments and tours\n6.30pm – Event ends
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/network-with-wivenhoe-house-hotel/
LOCATION:Wivenhoe House Hotel\, Wivenhoe Park\, Colchester\, Essex\, CO4 3FA
CATEGORIES:Networking
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=UTC:20250527T140000
DTEND;TZID=UTC:20250527T150000
DTSTAMP:20260420T073647
CREATED:20250506T141335Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250506T141335Z
UID:1290-1748354400-1748358000@www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk
SUMMARY:Windsor Framework Webinar
DESCRIPTION:As the Windsor Framework continues to reshape trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland\, upcoming regulatory changes are set to impact businesses across sectors. This informative webinar will break down key aspects\, address challenges\, and provide actionable insights for businesses. \nKey Discussion Points: \n\nGreen Lane vs. Red Lane – Understanding the new customs procedures and eligibility requirements\nUpcoming VAT & Tariff Adjustments – How businesses will be affected in 2025 and beyond\nProduct Compliance & Labeling Changes – New rules for food\, medicines\, and manufactured goods\nCustoms & SPS (Sanitary and Phytosanitary) Controls – What’s changing and how to prepare\nPractical Guidance & Compliance Strategies – Steps to minimize disruption and maintain smooth operations\nQ&A’s – Get your questions answered by our trade specialist.\n\nWho Should Attend? \n\nImporters & Exporters dealing with NI-GB trade\nRetailers and distributors navigating supply chain changes\nManufacturers impacted by regulatory shifts\nLogistics & customs professionals\n\n  \nDate:  Tuesday 27 May  2.00pm – 3.00pm\nPlatform:  Zoom\nCost: FREE for Members – Non-Members £25.00 + VAT\nEnsure your business is prepared for the evolving trade landscape\, register now!
URL:https://www.launchpadsouthend.co.uk/event/windsor-framework-webinar/
LOCATION:Zoom
CATEGORIES:Learning and development,Online Event
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