What to expect from attending a West Midlands Business Festival event

A celebration of business excellence

The West Midlands Business Festival (WMBF) has become a flagship event celebrating the region's vibrant, innovative, and dynamic business community. Running from 3rd to 14th March, it features 80+ events covering a wide range of topics, including insightful panel discussions, hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, and expert-led seminars. Attendees can explore themes such as digital transformation, sustainability, leadership, export strategies, and finance for growth. The festival offers a unique platform to connect, inspire, and empower businesses of all sizes while showcasing the West Midlands' economic strengths, from cutting-edge technology and world-class manufacturing to creative industries and professional services.

Designed to foster collaboration and innovation, the WMBF brings together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, SMEs, policymakers, and investors under one roof. Over the course of the festival, attendees can explore a diverse array of events, including workshops, panel discussions, networking sessions, and exhibitions, all aimed at driving business growth and innovation across the region.

Discover events and book your free tickets here.

Why attend?

Networking opportunities
The WMBF is the ultimate networking hub for the West Midlands business community. Attendees have the chance to meet potential clients, collaborators, and investors. Whether you're looking to forge new partnerships or learn from industry peers, the connections made at the festival can help propel your business forward.

Learn from industry experts
With a packed agenda of keynote speeches, panel discussions, and workshops, the festival offers access to some of the brightest minds in business. Experts will share insights on emerging trends, innovative strategies, and practical solutions tailored to the needs of SMEs and entrepreneurs.

Tailored support for SMEs
The festival places a strong emphasis on supporting SMEs, the backbone of the West Midlands economy. Attendees can discover funding opportunities, learn about government support programs, and gain advice on overcoming common business challenges, from scaling operations to navigating the digital transformation.

A dynamic variety of events
The WMBF shakes up the traditional networking scene with a dynamic variety of events designed to surprise and inspire. From active sessions that get you moving while connecting with like-minded professionals, to heartwarming events featuring some furry companions, there's something for everyone. Prefer a more relaxed vibe? Enjoy insightful evenings with creative conversations in welcoming settings. With so much choice, it’s the perfect chance to experience business networking in bold, exciting new ways.

Access to funding and resources
The festival offers businesses a unique chance to connect with regional funding bodies and support organizations. Attendees can explore grants specifically designed for SMEs, financial advisory services, and government-backed initiatives that help drive business growth. Plus, networking sessions may open doors to angel investors or venture capital firms interested in supporting local ventures.

Upskilling and development: Learn from workshops focused on essential business skills like marketing, sales, leadership, and sustainability.

Expanding market reach
The festival helps businesses expand their horizons and tap into new markets. Attend expert sessions on identifying and entering new domestic and international markets. Learn about the latest technologies and digital platforms to optimise operations and enhance customer experiences. Plus, networking events provide opportunities to form partnerships that could lead to co-marketing, product innovation, or business growth.

Real stories, real ompact

Hear directly from businesses that have benefited from past festivals. From securing investment to forming strategic partnerships, the stories of attendees illustrate the transformative power of the WMBF. By participating, you’ll join a community of forward-thinking businesses shaping the future of the West Midlands economy.

How to get involved

Ready to take part in the West Midlands Business Festival? Visit the WMBF website to view the full schedule of events and register your attendance. Whether you’re a startup founder, an established SME, or an aspiring entrepreneur, the festival promises something valuable for everyone.

Join us at the West Midlands Business Festival and take the next step in your business journey. Let’s grow, innovate, and succeed together!