This prestigious annual event will discuss and celebrate excellence in the delivery of enterprise support to small and micro businesses. Explore our confirmed speakers and sessions so far:
Director at Journolink Ltd
NEN Chair
Head of Customer Support – Business Banking, Barclays
Professor, Enterprise Research Centre, Warwick Business School
Deputy Director SME Strategy Analysis and Research
Office of the Small Business Commissioner
Head of Strategic and External Engagement , Barclays
The Crown Representative for Small Business
Lisa Seagroatt
Founder, HR Fit for Purpose
Ryan Bransome
Founder, U-Tech
Founder. Fuel’d
Founder. YellowNest
IoD Special Adviser Small Business and Entrepreneurship
Deputy CEO, Chartered Association of Business Schools
CEO, Centre for Entrepreneurs
Chief Technology & Investment Officer, UMi
Professor, Enterprise Research Centre, Warwick Business School
NEN Chair
This session will explore how enterprise support organisations can support businesses by providing funding diagnostics, investor‑readiness support and clear pathways through grants, debt and investment. It will also introduce UMi Get Funding as a trusted referral partner that enhances existing provision, making it easier for more businesses to access the funding they need
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future concept — it is already reshaping how organisations operate, compete and grow. This session will explore the bigger picture behind AI adoption: the economic forces driving investment, where capital is flowing, and which technologies are delivering real, measurable value. We’ll examine practical use cases gaining traction — from intelligent automation to next-generation customer experience — and consider how sectors such as finance and manufacturing are already being transformed.
The discussion will also focus on how enterprises are adapting, including emerging operating models, in-demand skills, and the strategic choices leaders are making today.
Featuring UK success stories that highlight the country’s growing influence in the global AI economy, the session will conclude with an open Q&A to encourage reflection, challenge and discussion.
Small businesses are the backbone of our communities and the lifeblood of local high streets — yet many are operating under sustained pressure. This session explores how enterprise support organisations, local partners and stakeholders can deliver meaningful, measurable impact that strengthens business resilience, revitalises high streets and builds thriving local economies. Join us to share practical approaches, partnerships and solutions that make a real difference on the ground.
As expectations rise and resources tighten, maintaining and improving quality in business support has never been more important. This session will explore how standards, accreditation, partnership working and local leadership can strengthen consistency, impact and trust across the system.
Founder of Humble Crumble – From Market Stall to £8million crumble empire.
We are always looking for more ways of benefitting micro businesses and small businesses, if you would like to get involved, get in touch.
