Category: Events and awards

Events roundup – August 2026

Published 15 July 2026

Events and awards

Looking to sharpen your business skills, embrace new technology, or uncover fresh growth opportunities? Our upcoming programme of webinars and events offers practical advice, expert insight, and valuable networking opportunities to help your business thrive.

From improving your sales focus and marketing strategy to exploring the latest developments in AI and Surrey’s energy future, there’s something for every business owner and leader. Browse the events below and secure your place today.

Sales Lab webinar: Finding the right opportunities

15 July 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm |Online

Many businesses are busy, but not always with the opportunities that drive the greatest results. This practical Sales Lab session will help you step back, evaluate where your time is being spent, and focus your efforts on the prospects most likely to convert and deliver long-term growth.

Ideal for SME owners who feel stretched, reactive, or frustrated by low-quality leads, this webinar provides a simple framework for prioritising sales activity and aligning it with your business goals.

15 July 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

Surrey’s Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) launch event

21 July 2026 | 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm | Online

Surrey is launching its first Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) – a major new initiative designed to tackle rising pressure on the county’s energy network and prepare for a future powered by cleaner, more affordable energy.

The LAEP will provide a clear, evidence‑based roadmap for upgrading Surrey’s energy infrastructure, helping the county stay ahead of growing demand from new homes, electric vehicles, and low‑carbon heating.

Join our energy webinar to help your organisation understand how to contribute to and benefit from Surrey’s Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP).

21 July 2026 | 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm | Online

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

Leading the change: Building the marketing engine that delivers growth

04 August 2026 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Growth doesn’t happen by chance. This session explores how developing the right strategy can create a strong foundation for sustainable business growth. Discover why marketing and communications should support the entire customer journey and why successful businesses take a broader approach than simply promoting products and services.

04 August 2026 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Register here to secure your place.

AI for everyday work: Practical use of AI in emails, docs and meetings

12 August 2026 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am | Online

Learn how artificial intelligence can help you save time, improve communication and increase productivity in your day-to-day work. This practical session will demonstrate how AI can support the creation of emails, documents and other business communications, while also making meetings more effective and easier to manage.

12 August 2026 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am | Online

Register here to secure your place.

Designing your AI Roadmap: A step-by-step guide for growing businesses

24 August 2026 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | Online

A successful AI journey starts with a clear plan. Led by Dr Stylianos Kampakis, this session will help businesses move from curiosity to action by developing a practical roadmap for identifying, prioritising and implementing AI projects that can deliver real commercial value.

24 August 2026 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Register here to secure your place.

The Marketing Lab: PR & positive media – build credibility and trust

10 September 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Effective public relations can help raise your profile, build trust and strengthen your reputation. This interactive session focuses on developing compelling stories, identifying media opportunities and using positive coverage to enhance credibility and visibility. Suitable for businesses at any stage, it offers practical guidance on making PR work for you.

10 September 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Register here to secure your place.

The Surrey Business Amazon Growth Summit

16 September 2026 | 10:00 am – 16:00 pm | In Person

Education. Connections. And a genuine shot at winning professionally produced creative assets, free. Don’t be the Surrey business that missed this day.

Join Unicorn Orange and a room full of Surrey business owners, industry experts, policy makers and senior figures from Join Unicorn Orange and a room full of Surrey business owners, industry experts and senior representatives from organisations including the Surrey Chamber of Commerce, the Institute of Directors, Surrey County Council, the Federation of Small Businesses and the University of Surrey.

This one-day event is designed for ambitious businesses looking to grow, providing practical insight, valuable connections and ideas that can be implemented immediately. Attendees will also have the opportunity to win professionally produced creative assets that could help transform their digital presence and marketing performance.

16 September 2026 | 10:00 am – 16:00 pm | In Person

Register here to secure your place!

Start your net zero journey with confidence

17 September 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Led by our specialist Sustainability Advisor, Shelley Lawson, this session will provide practical guidance on measuring and reducing emissions, improving operational efficiency, cutting costs, and responding to increasing customer and supply chain expectations around sustainability. Drawing on decades of commercial experience, including co-founding the award-winning children’s bicycle brand Frog Bikes, Shelley will share real-world examples of how businesses can successfully implement sustainable practices.

17 September 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Register here to secure your place!

Submit your own event

Don’t forget, our events directory is a great way to promote your own business events to a wider audience. If your organisation is hosting or sponsoring a business event in Surrey, you can submit it for inclusion in the directory by completing this simple form.

Free support for Surrey SMEs

All events are fully funded for Surrey businesses and delivered by Business Surrey, a Surrey County Council service offering expert advice to help Surrey businesses thrive. More fully funded sessions are coming soon – visit our events page for the latest information, or explore our resources page for details of upcoming Business Surrey events, our range of toolkits and our webinar library. Follow us on LinkedIn to keep up to date on the latest news and success stories!

Our experts are on hand to provide tailored advice to help your SME grow and succeed. Get in touch with a member of the team via our business support form.

And make sure you always hear about upcoming events by registering for our regular e-newsletter.

Surrey businesses backed by Growth Fund shortlisted for prestigious parenting awards

Published 10 July 2026

Events and awards, Surrey Success Stories

Two Surrey businesses supported by Surrey County Council’s Business Growth Grant programme are celebrating national recognition after being shortlisted in the Absolutely Mama Awards 2026. The awards recognise the brands, products and services making a difference to family life, with winners decided through public voting and expert judging. Voting is open until 15 July 2026.


The success of Lesh and More Toddler Meals highlights the strength of Surrey’s growing community of innovative businesses and the impact of support available through the Surrey Economic Growth Fund. To date, the fund has awarded almost £2 million to businesses across the county, helping unlock further investment, create jobs and drive economic growth.


Lesh shortlisted for Best Feeding/Nursing Product


Founded by Epsom entrepreneur Kat Fellows, Lesh was born from Kat’s own experience as a breastfeeding mother frustrated by the lack of practical solutions for milk leakage. After spending more than a year developing and testing products, she launched her innovative leakproof nursing bra brand in 2024.


Lesh received support through Surrey County Council’s Economic Growth Fund to help increase brand awareness and accelerate growth. The funding is helping Kat scale the business, strengthen marketing activity and build towards securing further investment.


Kat said:
“This grant will allow me to drive brand awareness and grow the business to a place where I can pitch for additional funding to become an internationally recognised brand in the maternity space.”

Kat also hopes to create opportunities for local mothers as the business grows, building a Surrey-based team to support areas including social media, customer service and fulfilment.


Lesh has now been shortlisted in the Best Feeding/Nursing Product category, placing the Surrey business alongside well-known names in the parenting sector.


More Toddler Meals shortlisted for Best Mealtime Range or Product


More Toddler Meals was created with a simple mission: to help parents feel proud of the meals they serve their toddlers. The business produces premium, gently dried meals packed with nutrients and designed to make healthy mealtimes easier for busy families.


The company received a Business Growth Grant to part-fund the new product development, allowing More Toddler Meals to expand its range and offer parents more choice.


The founder said:
“The grant has been transformational for our business. Without it we would have just been able to launch one new product so we’ve instantly been able to double the opportunity […] giving more variety for parents to choose from”


The business has now been shortlisted in the Best Mealtime Range or Product category alongside established names including Annabel Karmel and Organix. Reflecting on the recognition, the founder said:
“Being shortlisted for such a prestigious award amongst established brands like Annabel Karmel and Organix is truly humbling. I am so determined to ensure parents have better choices available for feeding their little ones and this recognition gives me the confidence to keep working hard to rebuild the category.”


Vote for Surrey businesses


The nominations are a fantastic achievement for two Surrey businesses that are using innovation to support families while growing their presence nationally.


You can support Lesh and More Toddler Meals by voting in the Absolutely Mama Awards before voting closes on 15 July. Vote here: https://absolutely-mama.co.uk/awards/

Looking for support to grow your Surrey business? Get in touch via our Business Support Form.

Kat Fellows - Lesh founder | Business Surrey

BiofuelAi wins Manchester Prize for AI innovation

Published 16 June 2026

Events and awards, Innovation, Surrey Success Stories

BiofuelAi – a University of Surrey spinout that uses artificial intelligence to help biogas plants produce more renewable energy at lower cost with reduced emissions – has won the Manchester Prize. The UK government’s flagship AI innovation challenge comes with a £1 million government award.

BiofuelAi, co-founded by Professor Michael Short from the University of Surrey, has developed an AI-powered decision support platform. This transforms how biogas plant operators manage production.  

Where plants have historically relied on experience, know-how and intuitions, the new platform gives operators a real-time picture of what is happening inside their digesters and what action will produce the best outcome.  

Pilot trials have demonstrated revenue increases of between 6 and 10 per cent. Profit is up between 7 and 13 per cent while there is a 28 per cent reduction in carbon emissions.

BiofuelAi’s Manchester Prize win is a real boon for the company, which is based at the Surrey Technology Centre in Guildford.

Expansion plans are underway. BiofuelAi is currently onboarding three new sites with its solution and has signed a UK reseller agreement. In time this could create new roles for the local economy and support regional growth.

BiofuelAi – roots in Surrey

BiofuelAi is a spinout from the University of Surrey’s AI4AD research project. It has attracted more than £1.5m in research funding.

The focus is on biogas. This is produced through anaerobic digestion, the breakdown of organic material such as agricultural waste, food waste and wastewater. It is a significant and growing component of the UK’s renewable energy mix.  

The founding team includes Dr Benaissa Dekhici, Dr Rohit Murali and Dr Ruosi Zhang alongside Professor Short and Alan Beesley. Together they combine over 40 years of modelling expertise with experience of the biogas industry.

BiofuelAi’s platform works by combining mechanistic models, machine learning and hybrid approaches to create a digital twin of a biogas plant.

This allows for simultaneous optimisation of short-term decisions – such as feeding recipes and storage management – and longer-term ones, including feedstock acquisition and digester health. It also accounts for uncertainty in the biological process.

Over five years, BiofuelAi projects its platform could deliver more than £500m in client value. By 2030, the company estimates its platform could mitigate 293,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year across the UK – the equivalent of heating 133,000 homes. 

BiofuelAi and the Manchester Prize – reaction

Alan Beesley, CEO and co-founder of BiofuelAi, said: “The biogas industry is one of the least data-driven sectors in energy. Plants that generate the heat and power for thousands of homes are still largely managed through spreadsheets and operator experience.

“BiofuelAi changes that. Winning the Manchester Prize validates the work of an exceptional team and accelerates our mission to make green energy more affordable, more consistent and more accessible.”

Science Minister Lord Vallance said: “The technology BiofuelAi has built could supercharge our mission to power Britain with clean, affordable energy, helping green energy plants produce even more power and cut carbon emissions. And they are just getting started.

“The Manchester Prize was created to find exactly this kind of innovation. Not AI as an abstract idea, but something that delivers results. This is British AI leadership in practice: world-class researchers tackling hard challenges and helping to build the industries of the future.”

Professor Stephen Jarvis, President and Vice-Chancellor at the University of Surrey, said: “BiofuelAi follows a long tradition of spinouts from our University – grounded in research with a clear purpose, by people determined to see it make a difference beyond the campus.

“The work started here in Guildford and has now won national recognition for what it could mean for the UK’s clean energy supply. That matters because energy security is not an abstract policy question right now. It depends on producing more of what we need at home, and the less efficiently we use domestic resources like biogas, the more dependent we remain on supplies we cannot control.”

Innovation support from Business Surrey

Business Surrey is a free accessible service to anyone looking to start or grow a business.

This includes working with universities and experts to support turning ideas into fully-fledged businesses via programmes like Surrey Venture Studio.

Do you have an idea to drive growth? Get in touch via our Business Support Form.

A group of employees from BiofuelAI in Surrey pose in front of a backdrop for the Manchester Prize

Events roundup – July 2026

Published 10 June 2026

Events and awards

Navigating the world of grant funding can often feel overwhelming for small business owners. With so many opportunities available – and just as many application requirements – knowing where to begin is often the hardest part. That’s why we’re making funding simple.

Join us for an informative and practical online webinar at the end of June, where our experts will guide you through the essentials of grant funding – from identifying the right opportunities to crafting strong, compelling applications that stand out. Whether you’re at the early stages of your business journey or looking to grow, this session will help you build confidence and take your next step with clarity.

But that’s just the beginning. Our Business Surrey fully funded events, along with our partner events continue with a range of expert-led sessions designed to help you sharpen your skills, focus your strategy, and grow sustainably. From understanding your ideal customer to identifying the right sales opportunities and exploring Surrey’s Local Area Energy Plan, these sessions connect you to practical insights you can apply straight away.

If you’re ready to learn, grow, and make smarter business decisions, these upcoming events are the perfect place to start.

Funding made simple: Grant applications for small business success

30 June 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:30 pm | Online

Thinking about applying for grant funding but not sure where to start? Join us to hear from our experts at our funding webinar.

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

30 June 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:30 pm | Online

Starting a business? Profiling your ideal customer

7 July 2026 | 11:00 am – 12:00 am | Online

Business Academy’s live events and on-demand videos connect you with expert support and help you master new skills for your business.

Delve into the steps you need to consider when looking for and targeting your ideal customer. Taking into account demographic, location, marketing method and client need you will be sure to have all of the relevant tools you need to start building a profiling you ideal customer base.

Find out more about the day here.

7 July 2026 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am | Online

Sales Lab webinar: Finding the right opportunities

15 July 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm |Online

Many small businesses are busy, but not always with the right opportunities. This webinar helps business owners step back, sharpen their focus, and direct time and energy towards clients most likely to convert and grow.

Designed for SMEs who feel stretched, reactive, or stuck chasing the wrong leads, it offers a practical framework for prioritising sales effort and aligning it with real business goals.

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

15 July 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Surrey’s Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) launch event

Surrey is launching its first Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP) – a major new initiative designed to tackle rising pressure on the county’s energy network and prepare for a future powered by cleaner, more affordable energy.

The LAEP will provide a clear, evidence‑based roadmap for upgrading Surrey’s energy infrastructure, helping the county stay ahead of growing demand from new homes, electric vehicles, and low‑carbon heating.

Join our energy webinar to help your organisation understand how to contribute to and benefit from Surrey’s Local Area Energy Plan (LAEP).

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

21 July 2026 | 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm | Online

Submit your own event

Don’t forget, our events directory is a great way to promote your own business events to a wider audience. If your organisation is hosting or sponsoring a business event in Surrey, you can submit it for inclusion in the directory by completing this simple form.

Free support for Surrey SMEs

All events are fully funded for Surrey businesses and delivered by Business Surrey, a Surrey County Council service offering expert advice to help Surrey businesses thrive. More fully funded sessions are coming soon – visit our events page for the latest information, or explore our resources page for details of upcoming Business Surrey events, our range of toolkits and our webinar library. Follow us on LinkedIn to keep up to date on the latest news and success stories!

Our experts are on hand to provide tailored advice to help your SME grow and succeed. Get in touch with a member of the team via our business support form.

And make sure you always hear about upcoming events by registering for our regular e-newsletter.

King’s Awards for Enterprise 2026 honour two leading Surrey businesses

Published 19 May 2026

Events and awards, Innovation

The King’s Awards for Enterprise 2026 winners have been announced with two Surrey businesses being recognised for driving innovation and growth.

The annual awards celebrate the achievements of leading businesses from across the UK, recognising their vital role in growing our economy to improve lives.

This year two Surrey businesses have been awarded The King’s Award for Enterprise for Innovation.

The winners are:

  • Anchor Systems (International)
    • Based in Lingfield, this company is recognised for its rapidly deployed innovative foundation and cable management system. This eliminates concrete and reducing carbon emissions significantly.
  • MysteryVibe Ltd
    • Develops ultra-slim flexible medical devices to address prostate pain and reduce prostate cancer from its HQ in Puttenham, near Guildford

His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant Michael More-Molyneux – the King’s representative in Surrey – will be presenting the King’s Awards for Enterprise 2026 to businesses throughout the year. One representative from each winning business will also be invited to a special Royal reception event.

They are among 186 recipients honoured by His Majesty this year in what is billed “the UK’s most prestigious business awards”.

Overall, 76 businesses have been recognised for International Trade and 52 for Innovation. 36 received honours for Sustainability and 22 for Promoting Opportunity (through social mobility).

The King’s Awards – celebrating business success for 60 years

This year marks a significant milestone for the King’s Awards as they celebrate 60 years since the first honours were conferred.

Established in 1965, the programme has since recognised more than 8,000 exceptional UK businesses, highlighting the strength, innovation, and ambition of British enterprise.

To mark this anniversary year, and to ensure the Awards continue to reflect the evolving landscape of UK business, a new category has been introduced for 2027.

The King’s Award for Enterprise – Young Founder recognises those aged 18 to 30 who are actively leading their businesses and driving growth and opportunity.

Blair McDougall, Minister for Small Businesses and Economic Transformation, said:

“A huge congratulations to every business receiving awards this year, who once again have illustrated the best of British innovation and talent.

“These awards show that right across the UK, there are small businesses that are thriving, growing and succeeding and it’s only right that we champion these successes.”

Out of the 186 awards, 164 (89%) went to SMEs. And of those, 24 (13%) are micro-businesses, with 10 employees or less.

The King’s Awards for Enterprise were previously known as The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise. They were renamed two years ago to reflect His Majesty The King’s desire to continue the legacy of HM Queen Elizabeth II by recognising outstanding UK businesses.

King’s Awards for Enterprise 2027 – apply now

The King’s Awards for Enterprise are the highest accolade for business success.

As well as honouring outstanding UK companies, they encourage the development of British business.

There are five categories:

  • International trade
    • Demonstrating growth in overseas earnings
  • Innovation
    • Proven commercial success through innovative products or services
  • Sustainable development
    • Integrating environmental, social, economic and management aspects of sustainable development into their business
  • Promoting Opportunity through social mobility
    • Have had a social mobility programme running for more than two years, helping socially disadvantaged individuals or groups
  • Young Founder
    • recognising founders aged 18 to 30 who are actively leading their businesses and driving growth and opportunity.

You can now apply for 2027 awards until 8 September 2026.

The Surrey Lieutenancy is happy to help and advise you at any stage of your application process. It may also be possible to put you in touch with other companies in Surrey that have successfully applied. Get in touch via the Lieutenancy Office website.

You can also contact the King’s Award team on 020 7215 6880 or emailing kingsawards@beis.gov.uk.

To find out more about how to nominate for the next round of awards, visit The King’s Awards for Enterprise.

Any Surrey business looking for support to grow, contact the Business Surrey team via our Business Support Form.

Four people in high vis vests with Anchor Systems on the back stand around a piece of high tech machinery which is on a construction site

Events roundup – June 2026

Published 18 May 2026

Events and awards

June brings a strong programme of fully funded Business Surrey events, alongside expert-led partner sessions, all designed to help Surrey businesses build knowledge, confidence and momentum. From the emerging world of AI-driven search to practical sales and marketing support, plus a specialist led webinar on how to apply for funding, these sessions focus on the real challenges and opportunities facing businesses today.

This month’s line-up includes a Digital Skills webinar on Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO), helping you understand how to get your business found in AI search, alongside a Sales Lab session offering a practical, confidence-building approach to selling for small businesses. You can also join the Business Academy for an SEO webinar to learn how to drive more traffic and increase visibility, and take part in the Marketing Lab session focused on boosting your digital presence and reaching the right audience.

Alongside these, there are opportunities to strengthen your business foundations with security awareness training, helping you protect against cyber threats, and a finance workshop designed to demystify key financial terminology and requirements when starting or growing a business. Together, these online sessions provide practical insight, expert guidance and valuable opportunities to connect – helping you grow sustainably and stay competitive in a fast-changing landscape.

Digital Skills – GEO: Get found in AI search

4 June 2026 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am | Online

Business Academy’s live events and on-demand videos connect you with expert support and help you master new skills for your business.

Generative Engine Optimisation (GEO) is the emerging discipline that helps businesses adapt to this shift, ensuring your brand is visible, cited, and recommended in AI-generated answers rather than left behind.

This webinar explores what GEO is, why it matters, and what practical steps you can take right now to optimise your digital presence for AI-driven search. 

It will be a great opportunity to hear about the various funding and scaleup support initiatives in train, as well as offer excellent opportunities to network with peers.

Find out more about the day here.

4 June 2026 | 10:00 am – 11:00 am | Online

Sales Lab webinar: Sales for small businesses – a practical approach

10 June 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Join Business Surrey for this practical, confidence-building webinar is designed for small businesses that want to grow without becoming something they’re not.

You’ll leave with a simple, practical sales cycle map you can adapt to your own business, helping you spot gaps, build consistency, and sell with confidence and integrity.

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

10 June 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | Online

Digital Skills – Driving traffic with Search Engine Optimisation (SEO)

12 June 2026 | 2.00pm – 3.00pm | Online

Maximising SEO is crucial to improving your online brand awareness. Join the Business Academy and find out how to make your website more visible and increase sales.

Search engine optimisation needn’t be a mystery to exporters – the main methodologies that drive rankings, traffic and enquiries are well established but there are some nuances to consider. This is especially the case with Google updating its algorithm more frequently. With over 8.5 billion searches per day on Google alone, reliance on search is still increasing across all sectors.

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

12 June 2026 | 2.00pm – 3.00pm | Online

Security Awareness Training for Small Businesses

17 June 2026 | 10:00am – 12.00pm |Online

Cyber Resilience Centre – Additional places available for fully funded staff Security Awareness Training

Ensure your staff are fully aware of current and emerging cyber threats

Based on the National Cyber Security Centre’s guidance, Security Awareness Training for Small Businesses provides employees with a basic yet effective understanding of their cyber environment and the confidence to recognise and report potential security issues.

Register here to secure your place!

17 June 2026 | 10:00am – 12.00pm | Online

Starting a Business? Making sense of financial jargon

23 June 2026 | 11:am – 12:00pm | Online

Learn how to manage business finances, meet legal requirements, and choose the right legal structure with confidence.

This workshop will demystify keeping financial records as you start and grow your business, by introducing you to the terminology that you need to know when reporting to HMRC and Companies House.

Register here to secure your place.

23 June 2026 | 11:am – 12:00pm | Online

Marketing Lab Series: Digital visibility – Get seen by the right audience

24 June 2026 | 1:00pm – 1:30pm | online

Increase your online presence and make it easier for your audience to find you. This session focuses on practical ways to boost your digital visibility, strengthen your brand presence, and stand out in a crowded marketplace. 

Register here to secure your place!

24 June 2026 | 1:00am – 1:30 pm | online

Funding made simple: Grant applications for small business success

30 June 2026 | 11:30pm – 12:30pm | online

This practical webinar will help you build the confidence and knowledge to approach grant applications effectively. Drawing on insights from funding programmes delivered in 2025, we’ve seen first-hand that many businesses struggle to combine clear data, compelling storytelling, and measurable impact – all essential ingredients for success. Join us for a practical, insight-led session designed to help you take the next step in securing funding for your business

Register here to secure your place!

30 June 2026 | 11:30am – 12:30 pm | online

Submit your own event

Don’t forget, our events directory is a great way to promote your own business events to a wider audience. If your organisation is hosting or sponsoring a business event in Surrey, you can submit it for inclusion in the directory by completing this simple form.

Free support for Surrey SMEs

All events are fully funded for Surrey businesses and delivered by Business Surrey, a Surrey County Council service offering expert advice to help Surrey businesses thrive. More fully funded sessions are coming soon – visit our events page for the latest information, or explore our resources page for details of upcoming Business Surrey events, our range of toolkits and our webinar library. Follow us on LinkedIn to keep up to date on the latest news and success stories!

Our experts are on hand to provide tailored advice to help your SME grow and succeed. Get in touch with a member of the team via our business support form.

And make sure you always hear about upcoming events by registering for our regular e-newsletter.

Events roundup – April 2026

Published 9 April 2026

Events and awards

April brings a strong mix of fully funded Business Surrey events alongside high‑quality partner sessions designed to support Surrey businesses at every stage of growth. Together with trusted regional and national partners, we’re delivering practical, expert‑led events that focus on the skills, insight and connections businesses need right now.

From marketing and sales planning to funding, scale‑up support, networking and cybersecurity, these bite‑sized sessions and in‑person events offer relevant, actionable learning and valuable opportunities to connect with the wider business community. Many sessions are free to attend and designed to fit around busy schedules, helping Surrey businesses plan with confidence, reach customers more effectively and build resilience for the future.

ScaleUp Britain Surrey

16 April 2026 | 12:00pm – 5.00pm | In person

The ScaleUp Institute with the London Stock Exchange, the University of Surrey and our key partners, are hosting a ScaleUp Britain event.

This will be open to all scaling businesses as well as ecosystem players supporting these businesses.

The event will delve into the funding landscape and options to raise capital in 2026 and beyond; providing insights on new initiatives to tap into private capital and access a broader and deeper investor pool, including institutional capital in an easier, simpler way whilst remaining private, while one’s company grows.

It will be a great opportunity to hear about the various funding and scaleup support initiatives in train, as well as offer excellent opportunities to network with peers.

Find out more about the day here.

16 April 2026 | 12:00pm – 5.00pm | In person

Source in Surrey Roadshow – Epsom

23 April 2026 | 8:300pm – 10.00pm | In person

Join the Surrey Chambers for the Source in Surrey roadshow in Epsom – a new series of free, local events designed to help businesses grow.

Hosted at Epsom Downs Racecourse, Epsom, this morning session will introduce our new AI-powered business matchmaking tool, share practical insights from our guest speaker, and create valuable opportunities to connect with other local businesses.

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

23 April 2026 | 8:300pm – 10.00pm | In person

Source in Surrey Roadshow- Elmbridge

28 April 2026 | 8:300pm – 10.00pm | In person

Join the Surrey Chambers for the Source in Surrey roadshow in Elmbridge – a new series of free, local events designed to help businesses grow.

Hosted at Brooklands Museum, Weybridge, this morning session will introduce our new AI-powered business matchmaking tool, share practical insights from our guest speaker, and create valuable opportunities to connect with other local businesses.

Find out more about how to register for the event here.

28 April 2026 | 8:300pm – 10.00pm | In person

Marketing Lab Series: Marketing schedule – plan with purpose

30 April 2026 | 1:00pm – 1.30pm | online | fully-funded

Join Business Surrey experts setting the foundation for effective marketing with a clear, structured schedule. In this session, we’ll help you map out your activity, align your efforts with business goals, and create a realistic plan you can stick to.

What you’ll cover:

  • Turning goals into actionable marketing activity
  • Planning campaigns across the year
  • Building a schedule that works for your time and resources
  • Staying consistent without feeling overwhelmed

Register here to secure your place!

30 April 2026 | 1:00pm – 1:30 pm | online | fully funded

Marketing Lab Series: Content & communications plan – connect with impact

19 May 2026 | 11:30pm – 12:00 pm | online | fully funded

Bring your marketing to life with content that resonates with our Business Surrey experts. This session focuses on creating a strong content and communications plan that helps you engage your audience and deliver the right message at the right time.

What you’ll cover:

  • Defining your key messages and tone of voice
  • Choosing the right content for your audience
  • Planning and organising your content effectively
  • Creating consistent, engaging communications across channels

Register here to secure your place!

19 May 2026 | 11:30pm – 12:00 pm | online | fully funded

Security awareness training for small businesses

Various dates and times | online | fully funded

Cyber Resilience Centre – Additional places available for fully funded staff security awareness training

Ensure your staff are fully aware of current and emerging cyber threats

Based on the National Cyber Security Centre’s guidance, security awareness training for small businesses provides employees with a basic yet effective understanding of their cyber environment and the confidence to recognise and report potential security issues.

Employees are the first layer of cyber defence in any business, so it’s essential to ensure they can spot common cyber security issues or risks. The training is aimed at those with little or no technical knowledge and delivered in small, succinct modules supported by real-world examples relevant to the business’s context.

The National Cyber Security Centre has issued an alert advising businesses take action so please select which date suits you and your team and reserve your place.

Various dates and times | online | fully funded

Submit your own event

Don’t forget, our events directory is a great way to promote your own business events to a wider audience. If your organisation is hosting or sponsoring a business event in Surrey, you can submit it for inclusion in the directory by completing this simple form.

Free support for Surrey SMEs

All events are fully funded for Surrey businesses and delivered by Business Surrey, a Surrey County Council service offering expert advice to help Surrey businesses thrive. More fully funded sessions coming soon – check our events page for details, and follow us on LinkedIn to keep up to date event for you here

Our experts are on hand to provide tailored advice to help your SME grow and succeed. Get in touch with a member of the team via our business support form.

And make sure you always hear about upcoming events by registering for our regular e-newsletter.

Source in Surrey to forge closer connections to boost county economy

Published 29 January 2026

Advice and support, Business news, Events and awards, Innovation

Source in Surrey is an innovative initiative to help Surrey businesses benefit more from spending in the region’s £50 billion economy. It’s been developed by Surrey Chambers of Commerce after it secured a grant from Surrey County Council’s Economic Growth Fund.

The six-figure initiative is designed to strengthen the regional economy by connecting small and medium-sized businesses with larger organisations for major contract opportunities.

It kicks off next month, with the first of 10 roadshow events taking place in Woking on February 11.

The programme will also include sales masterclasses. Plus there’s the creation of an AI-powered platform, streamlining connections between buyers and suppliers.

Source in Surrey and the Economic Growth Fund

Source in Surrey is one of several projects funded via the council’s Economic Growth Fund. This pools public and private funds, including government Shared Prosperity Funding, into a single pot.

Since launching in April, more than £3 million has been invested via the council in local businesses and organisations to support business growth, innovation and employment opportunities.

Matt Furniss, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport and Economic Growth, said: “Source in Surrey will tackle a real challenge – helping our smaller businesses access the kind of major contracts that can transform their growth trajectory.

“By connecting SMEs with larger organisations and equipping them with the skills to compete, we’re not just creating jobs and boosting our economy, we’re building a more resilient and collaborative business community across the county.

“We’re pleased to have been able to support the initiative via the Economic Growth Fund and I look forward to seeing our people, places and businesses benefit from closer connections in the future.”

About Source in Surrey

Source in Surrey will look to bridge the gap by focusing on four key areas:

  • enhancing selling capabilities
  • improving procurement access
  • building customer databases
  • forging closer connections, starting with a county-wide roadshow programme.

Each roadshow session includes a keynote session from a business leader. Attendees will also be introduced to the AI platform for businesses to find and procure suitable contracts.

The roadshows, which are free to attend, take place at:

  • Dukes Court, Woking (February 11)
  • Tandridge Golf Course, Oxted (February 24)
  • Hartsfield Manor, Betchworth (February 26)
  • Login Lounge, Camberly (March 3)
  • The Thames Club, Staines (March 11)
  • Farnham Maltings (March 17)
  • Reigate Manor, Reigate (March 24)
  • Guildford Pavilion (April 14)
  • Epsom Racecourse (April 23)
  • Brooklands Museum (April 28)

The initiative also includes expert-led sales training courses delivered by Anita Saini of HX Solutions. These start on 10 February at Login Lounge, Camberley, and 10 March at Dukes Court, Woking.

These practical courses aim to equip smaller businesses with the confidence and skills to compete for and win significant contracts.

Louise Punter of Surrey Chambers said: “The Surrey economy is large but much of the spend of the larger organisations is made outside of Surrey. So we want to encourage larger businesses and organisations to ‘buy local’ and make it easier for smaller businesses to win contracts.

“By bringing these different parts of the business eco-system together we will also facilitate other ways of supporting the smaller businesses through training opportunities and economies of scale.”

Businesses can find out more on the events page of the Surrey Chambers website . Or email the team at sourceinsurrey@surrey-chambers.co.uk.

Need additional help and support? Get in touch with our team of experts via the Business Surrey business support form.

Three people stand smiling in front of promotional banners for Source in Surrey and Business Surrey

Unlock new opportunities: Join our fully funded business events

Published 16 January 2026

Events and awards

Surrey businesses, get ready! We’re rolling out a series of high‑impact, fully funded events to help you innovate and grow. Dive into expert-led sessions on marketing and start‑up success and more – all free to attend, with no cost to you.

Start-up overview

Kickstart your self-employment journey with our interactive Start-Up Overview workshop.
In just one hour, you’ll gain valuable insights into the realities of working for yourself, assess your personal and business readiness, and leave empowered to decide if self-employment is right for you.

23 January | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | online | fully funded

Your Start-up journey begins here

20 February | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm | online | fully funded

Your Start-up journey begins here

The Marketing Lab series

Boost your marketing skills with our series of fully funded online workshops. Together they form a series, but there’s no obligation to attend all three; just choose the subjects that are most relevant to your own business. Or come along to all three and really reap the benefits!

1. Communicate with confidence

22 January 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | online

Learn how to define and express your brand with clarity and impact.

There’s no limit to the number of attendees, just be sure to register early!

2. Build your digital growth engine

12 February 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | online

Explore smart digital strategies to expand reach and engagement.

There’s no limit on the number of attendees, just be sure to register early!

3. Build, automate & accelerate

5 March 2026 | 11:30 am – 12:00 pm | online

Discover CRM tools, workflow design, and automation for sustainable growth.

There’s no limit on the number of attendees, just be sure to register early!

Hear from Dan Chidley, our trusted coach helping people, organisations, communities and good causes through coaching, mentoring, personal and professional development. Accredited Member of the Association for Coaching. Director level marketing and communications professional with 20 years’ experience: in-house, agency and consultancy. Chartered Marketer and Member of the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

More fully funded sessions coming soon – check our events page for details, and follow us on LinkedIn to keep up to date.

All events are fully funded for Surrey businesses and delivered by Business Surrey, a Surrey County Council service offering expert advice to help Surrey businesses thrive. Find the right event for you here
Need tailored support? Contact us via the Business Support form
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Surrey Business Awards 2025 – celebrating the best businesses in the county

Published 19 November 2025

Events and awards

Business Surrey was proud to be a sponsor at the Surrey Business Awards 2025. The awards culminated in a glittering event last week (12 November) at Guildford’s G Live to celebrate the successes of businesses across Surrey.

Each year, this highly anticipated event celebrates the incredible achievements and contributions of businesses and individuals across Surrey. The calibre of entries is consistently outstanding, with exceptionally high quality submissions, making it a hard task for the judges who consider each category.

For the 2025 awards Business Surrey’s Enterprise Mentor, Renée Canter was delighted to judge the Best New Business category. Renée was inspired by the professionalism and creativity shown by the founders and teams of a hugely varied group of organisations all doing great things across Surrey. 

We’d like to congratulate all the finalists in the awards, and particularly in this category: Horizon Leisure Trust, Surrey Hills Motor Company, Innovationin, KPN Accounting Ltd, and Lamplight Media. Special congratulations go to Kingsley Earl of Kings Kleans who won the award for Best new Business 2025, presented by Matt Furniss, Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport, Economy and Growth.

For a full list of finalists and winners see the Surrey Business Awards website. Why not enter next year for the chance to showcase your business and join the ranks of Surrey’s most successful and innovative companies.

Looking for further advice?

Business Surrey is a Surrey County Council service providing expert support and advice to all businesses in Surrey. Our aim is to help you start, grow and thrive.

You can get in touch with our business advisors at any point. Our experts offer thousands of pounds-worth of free bespoke support to eligible businesses.

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