Striving Birmingham tech sector discussed during ABCC patrons dinner
The striving technology sector in Birmingham and the key challenges faced by minority communities were the key talking points of discussion at the Asian Business Chambers of Commerce patrons’ dinner writes Feron Jayawardene.
The event, which was held at Hotel du Vin last night was hosted by ABCC executive committee member Gurdas Singh with the attendance of 50 guests.
ABCC president Omar Rashid welcomed the guests while the keynote address was given by Yiannis Maos MBE, founder and CEO of TechWM.
Speaking at the event, Yiannis said: “Birmingham was the fastest growing tech sector in the UK during 2022.
“We have contributed £3.5 billion to the local economy. The region’s tech industry is thriving and will add 52,000 jobs and £2.7 billion more to the economy by 2025.
“Jobs in the digital and technology sectors have also been increased by 35 per cent with 2300 tech startups collectively raising over £1 billion pounds.
“However, there is still fragmentation and not enough support in the region, especially towards the marginalised communities.
“Entrepreneurs from Black, South Asian, Eastern Asian, and Middle Eastern backgrounds receive only 1.7 per cent of BSEEN investments even though ethnic minorities make 14 per cent of the UK population.
“This shows a disproportionate underinvestment in these communities and my commitment is to shift this underinvestment to a positive outcome in the next decade.”
ABCC president Omar Rashid said while welcoming guests: “It is both an honour and a privilege to stand here tonight to appreciate the support, dedication and commitment given by ABCC patrons to achieve our goals and aspirations.
“In an evolving world, the ABCC strives to be a leading platform for Asian business with innovation and creativity. The involvement of all patrons is not just a partnership, but a shared collaboration to inspire Asian businesses.”
Chris Reynolds from Malmaison and Hotel du Vin talked about the new developments happening at the hotel.
Yiannis also spoke about the origins of the Birmingham Tech Week: “I wanted to give back to the local community and Birmingham Tech Week was born. By October 2019, we had 5000 people attending and we realised that a much bigger platform was needed to get people into tech.”
Upcoming ABCC events include Networking and Diwali Celebration 2023 on 25 October, ABCC member social on 9 November, and the Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony on 18 November.
Click here for more information or contact ABCC director Anjum Khan on a.khan@birmingham-chamber.com
Pictured from left to right: Chris Reynolds from Hotel du Vin, ABCC president Omar Rashid, ABCC director Anjum Khan, Yiannis Maos MBE and ABCC committee member Gurdas Singh
