Chamber launches conference to help SMEs grow and innovate

A business support conference has been launched by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), bringing together entrepreneurs, political figures, and industry leaders to explore opportunities for growth.

The Business Growth Studio conference will help businesses, industry leaders and entrepreneurs to tackle challenges through a day of panel discussions, expert insights and interactive workshops.

It will take place on Tuesday, 13 October at IET Birmingham: Austin Court from 8.45am to 2.15pm.

Access to the full conference is free to all GBCC members, whereas tickets for non-members are priced at £250 plus VAT and tickets for members of the Future Faces Chamber of Commerce are priced at £75 plus VAT.

University College Birmingham is the pioneer sponsor of this event while B13.AI is the catalyst sponsor.

The event forms part of the Business Growth Studio, a new GBCC programme designed to equip Greater Birmingham SMEs with the tools, knowledge and connections needed to grow confidently in today's economy.

It will feature a series of keynote speeches focused on growth foundations.

The opening keynote will explore the national and global trends shaping growth opportunities, delivered by Shevaun Haviland.

Shevaun has been the director general of the British Chambers of Commerce since April 2021. She was formerly Head of Business Engagement at Number 10 Downing Street and was at the heart of Government in the Cabinet Office as Head of the Inclusive Economy Partnership. 

A second session will offer practical insight into scaling a business while staying true to a core identity and the third keynote will explore how organisations can build, inspire and retain high-performing teams in a changing world of work.

Attendees will also be able to choose two interactive workshops from four themed sessions. Topics include sustainable growth and changing customer expectations, innovation and testing new ideas, technology adoption and implementation, and strategies for building a distinctive brand and expanding into global markets.

The conference will also feature a panel discussion focused on bringing growth foundations to life.

Keynote speakers, expert panellists and workshop facilitators will be announced soon.

Speaking about the conference, GBCC CEO Henrietta Brealey, said: "Growth doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from businesses having access to the right knowledge, networks and support at the right time — and that’s exactly what the Business Growth Studio Conference is designed to deliver.

“SMEs are the engine of our regional economy, yet many are operating in an increasingly complex landscape shaped by economic uncertainty, rapid technological change and evolving customer expectations.

“This conference brings together business leaders, policymakers and experts to share practical insight, challenge thinking and unlock new opportunities for ambitious organisations.

“As part of our wider Business Growth Studio programme, the event reflects our commitment to helping businesses not just survive, but thrive.

“Whether delegates are looking to strengthen their foundations, embrace innovation, develop their people or expand into new markets, they will leave with actionable ideas, valuable connections and the confidence to grow.”

Visit the website for more information about the conference including sponsorship opportunities.

Pictured: Former Dragons’ Den investor and Implement AI co-founder Piers Linney speaking at Business Growth Studio conference 2025.