Upbeat in the downturn: for free

This is the time to talk.

Amid talk of a crisis of confidence nationally and globally there’s an event about to take place at Doncaster Racecourse which might provide some much needed inspiration. And it’s all for free. Gratis. Nada.

This is Business Yorkshire: an event aimed squarely at SMEs and designed to get them through troublesome times.

But more than that it will be a celebration of what makes SMEs tick and what makes them successful.

Over two full days the Nationwide Media Group will follow on from its Business North West success in Manchester last year with talks from key speakers, seminars and networking events.

Already 100 businesses across a range of sectors have signed up and thousands are expected to attend the event.

Topics covered will include everything from maximising the potential of the internet and emails with talks from Craig Cook, Director of Webrom TV, and Ian Creek, Marketing Manager of Newzapp, to a discussion about creating brand awareness from Paul Kerfoot, Creative MD, Bullet Point Design. Meanwhile Penny de Valk, Chief Executive, Institute of Leadership and Management, will give tips on effective leadership. And these are just a sample of the talks.

Other activities include the Angel’s Den Theatre. This is where a friendly crew of venture capitalists will opulate the panel and welcome registered guests to pitch their ‘sure-fire’ ideas at them, offering advice, words of caution or a welcoming handshake.

Special guests include Karren Brady who carried out some of the interviewing on the Apprentice this year and is CEO of Birmingham City FC, two of the Apprentice candidates, Kristina Grimes and Jennifer Celerier and Richard Richardson, former founder and Director of Harry Ramsden’s. Plus there will be Michelle Mone, founder of Ultimo underwear, one of the leading female entrepreneurs in the country, telling her story of good products and imaginative marketing plus, crucially, knowing how to get deals with the likes of Asda and Selfridges. As Scott Hider, MD of Business Yorkshire, says, “Michele’s story is a perfect fit for what the show is all about.” And a perfect fit is what Michelle is all about.

But all this is a mere smattering of what’s happening across a range of rooms and halls in an event that will prove there is optimism to be found during a downturn.