Cheshire East Business Support Connect
Connecting business with resources, expertise and funding.
Connecting business with resources, expertise and funding.
The Business Support connect events are open to leaders and owners of SME businesses with a base in Cheshire East.
The events and support provided is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
Our Next Event:
Future Proofing Businesses - Innovation and Insights for Tomorrow's Challenges
28 Jan 2025 | 09:00 – 11:30 | Alderley Park,Cheshire, SK10 4TF
Join us on January 28th 2025 at Alderley Park, for a half-day event exploring the latest advancements in business technology and innovation. The "Future-Proofing Business: Innovation & Insights for Tomorrow’s Challenges," event brings together thought leaders and industry experts to share their perspectives on topics that will shape the future of business.
This insightful morning will equip attendees with actionable strategies to navigate a rapidly changing technological landscape and prepare their businesses for sustainable growth. Discover actionable insights and network with professionals focused on sustainable growth and technological adaptability.
Network with like-minded people and speakers, and examine growth-focused organisational Leadership
This event is part of the Productivity Improvement Programme, which supports businesses in Cheshire East with practical insights and tools to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how innovative practices and emerging technologies can drive your business forward.
Meet our Speakers
Helen Tonks MBE
Hydraulics Online Ltd.
Helen is the driving force behind Hydraulics Online, transforming it from a start-up to a global, multi-award-winning brand serving 130 countries. A champion of SMEs and education, she mentors, speaks publicly, and advises on multiple business boards. In 2024, she was awarded an MBE for her contributions to business and exports.
Andrew Martin
AMRC
Andrew Martin is Head of Food, Drink, and Agri-tech at The AMRC Cymru (based near Chester),leading innovations in productivity, sustainability, and net-zero. With 20+ years' experience, he chairs the UK Catapult community in food and drink and judges the Leading on Diversity Awards, advocating industry growth and talent development.
Rod Howells
BIC Innovation
Rod Howells is a seasoned executive with 25+ years of experience in innovation management and business strategy. He specializes in helping businesses adopt emerging technologies, particularly Al, to future-proof operations. His expertise spans healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics, guiding companies in integrating technology with people and processes for long-term growth.
Leadership in Change
Learn from Helen Tonks MBE on how to steer your organisation through growth
Emerging Technologies
Insights into tools and innovations set to transform industries with Andrew Martin from AMRC
AI in Business
How artificial intelligence is impacting workplaces and how to harness its potential with Rod Howells, BIC Innovation
Hear from SMEs who have been supported in our recent case studies:
How Tiny Housing Company is Transforming Ideas into Reality with IoT Solutions
"Support from the Productivity Improvement Programme helped us transform an idea into a viable business plan. The report has given us the confidence to explore suitable IoT solutions, and we’re excited about the competitive edge this brings to our products," Dane Smith-Burchnell
How Qualkem Unlocked New Productivity Levels Through Support from the Productivity Improvement Programme.
Following their initial meeting, Matt visited Qualkem where they discussed the company’s challenges and to tackle them. In Ivan’s words “What Matt did in 1 hour was a game changer!”
Want to know more?
Get in touch with out team if you want to know more about the events or further support options from the Cheshire East Business Support Hub.
Delivered by:
CIRCLE Leadership
Business Support Hub