Bridgwater Chamber of Commerce invites you to our first Focus on Growth Conference, a dynamic event designed to CONNECT, PROMOTE, and SUPPORT the thriving local business community. Whether you’re a startup, an established business, or simply looking for insights into the latest opportunities in Bridgwater and beyond, this conference is your chance to gain valuable knowledge, connect with like-minded professionals, and build pathways to success.

What to Expect

This full-day event will feature expert speakers, networking opportunities, and sessions covering key topics like funding, sustainability, and local development. Here’s the agenda:

9:00 am – 9:30 am: Arrival and Registration

Kick off the day with tea, coffee, and a warm welcome. Collect your name badge and event materials.

9:30 am – 9:45 am: Introduction

Roger and Matthew will provide a warm welcome, introduce the day’s agenda, and outline the objectives of the conference.

9:45 am – 10:30 am: Session 1 – Local Authority Update

Presenters: Representatives from Bridgwater Town Council and Somerset Council
Gain valuable insights into upcoming developments, local strategies, and growth opportunities within Bridgwater and Somerset.

10:30 am – 11:15 am: Session 2 – Funding Opportunities

Presenters: SWIG Finance & The FSE Group. Discover the latest funding programmes and resources available to support businesses across the South-West, including eligibility criteria and application tips.

11:15 am – 11:30 am: Morning Break

11:30 am – 12:30pm: Session 3 – Net Zero and Sustainability

Presenters: Gravity & Balanced Energy, B Corp. Learn about practical steps and solutions for achieving Net Zero, with a focus on sustainable practices that can help businesses reduce their carbon footprint.

12:30 pm – 1:15 pm: Lunch Break

Savour a light lunch and continue networking with fellow professionals.

1:15 pm – 2:15 pm: Session 4 – Hinkley Point C and Agratas Development

Presenters: Andrew Cockcroft(Head of Stakeholder Engagement and Social Impact – Hinkley Point C) & Nick Cooper(Community engagement Manager)/ James Gaskin(Head of Procurement at Agratas) and Paul Dempster(Operations Director Sir Robert McAlpine).
Explore the latest updates on the Hinkley Point C development and its associated opportunities, as well as an update on Agratas, progress, opportunities and the benefits for the local economy.

2:15 pm – 3:00 pm: Session 5 – Bridgwater and Taunton College

Focus on skills requirements for the future and training opportunities provided by the Ofsted rated “Outstanding” Bridgwater & Taunton College.

3:00 pm – 3:45 pm: Networking and Farewell

Why Attend?

This conference is designed to empower local businesses by providing:

•Valuable insights into regional growth and development.

•Funding opportunities to support business expansion.

•Practical solutions for sustainability and Net Zero goals.

•Networking opportunities with peers, experts, and community leaders.

•Included refreshments and lunch

Our Sponsor

LV Logistics provides integrated logistics and supply chain solutions tailored to meet the needs of diverse industries. With state-of-the-art facilities, advanced technology, and a dedicated team, they offer efficient services in warehousing, distribution, and transport. To learn more about their comprehensive services and how they can support your business, please visit LV Logistics UK.