Wigan Council have announced a new festival celebrating local businesses in partnership with Wigan’s Business Consortium, a collective of businesses from across the borough.
The Believe in Business Festival has been developed by business for business and will focus on the borough’s long term economic recovery.
The Business Consortium supports local business to adapt and grow, underpinned by the themes of Community Wealth Building, which aims to tackle economic inequality and create a fairer borough with greater opportunities for all.
As the first event organised by the Wigan Business Consortium, The Believe in Business Festival is a free to attend event that will give local businesses a platform to share experiences and stimulate growth.
Held on Thursday 15 September at The Edge Conference Centre, the festival aims to celebrate Wigan’s businesses from all different sizes and sectors, giving them a space to collaborate, share experiences and network.
The event will also highlight the support available to businesses across Greater Manchester including The Growth Company, Good Employment Charter and more. Partner organisations will be in attendance to offer free advice and support throughout the day.
Throughout the day there will be a combination of workshops, panels, and networking to help businesses approach growth in an inclusive, ethical and sustainable manner. Topics discussed will include recruitment and skills, economic development, sustainability and there will be a guest speech from Shaun Wane, head coach for the England national rugby league team.
There will also be an Artisan Market, where local artisan traders will be showcasing their products, available to purchase on the day and a Food Court, where there will be a range of local businesses serving delicious food and drink, available to purchase throughout the day.
Leader of Wigan Council, Councillor David Molyneux, MBE, said: “This is sure to be an insightful, supportive and celebratory day for local businesses, developed by local businesses.
“I am looking forward to welcoming all of the attendees to this free ‘Believe in Business’ Festival. It will be a great chance to share learning, get support and take part in a series of fascinating panels and workshops.”
Jonathan Twist, managing director of Gee Tee’s and member of the Business Consortium, said: “It has been great to be able to play a part in the Festival planning, and see the sterling effort go into the day.
“Myself and the other members of the Business Consortium are looking forward to what is sure to be a worthwhile and enjoyable event for organisations of all sizes across Wigan Borough. I’ve no doubt this will be a must-attend festival for everyone wanting to strengthen their business.”
Find out more about the festival and register for the event here.