This week I had the pleasure of welcoming the Staffordshire Business Innovation Centre team to their new permanent home in our Festival Park HQ, Commerce House.
Many of our members will be familiar with the Staffordshire Business Innovation Centre, better known as Staffs BIC or just the BIC, as they have helped countless Staffordshire businesses to grow since their formation in 1995.
They were originally established as part of a European network of innovation centres with the aim of encouraging and promoting innovation through advice, workshops, seminars and funding.
I have been speaking with my opposite number, Geoff Riley at the BIC for several months and we both agreed that the move would benefit all businesses in Staffordshire – not only because we have always worked closely together, but also because we share connections with thousands of local businesses.
Now BIC clients like our members will benefit from our central location right in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent. We already have superb facilities such as state-of-the-art members’ lounge and a suite of modern meeting rooms with the latest hybrid meeting technologies.
Our two organisations share the same commitment to building prosperity in our local economy by helping our businesses to be innovative, inventive, and forward-thinking.
BIC CEO Geoff Riley has served for several years on our board and council, and our history of working together will be further cemented by being co-located. For more information about Staffs BIC visit: www.thebic.co.uk
Leek & District Show returns
This Saturday sees a welcome return of the Leek & District Show after an absence of two years due to the pandemic.
The show has been a focal point for the agricultural and rural economy of the Staffordshire Moorlands for over 60 years and the emphasis is very much on the businesses and farms that contribute so much to the livelihoods of thousands of people in the Moorlands.
The show is a great family day out with livestock, horticulture, show jumping, a farrier competition, crafts, and a food and produce show among the numerous attractions and events.
Staffordshire Chambers are proud to showcase a business stand – and visitors can sample cupcakes, try their hand at ‘beating our goalie’, or even get a glitter tattoo! And, or course, we can talk about how we support business if you wish!
This year the show is located at a new site off the A53 in Longsden, and I am delighted that the Chambers will be there to show our support to the people and businesses of the Staffordshire Moorlands.
There will be over 150 businesses both large and small flocking to the new site off the A53 in Longsden, which I’m sure will demonstrate the strength and diversity of the local economy.
If you plans allow, we’d love to see you at the Leek Show on Saturday. Full information and a list of events and exhibitors are on the website: Leek Show
If you want to talk to us about any business issues, including funding, you can call our switchboard on 01782 202222 or call the Stoke and Staffs Growth Hub Helpline on 0300 111 8002 or email: info@staffordshirechambers.co.uk
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