Downtown in Business has announced that Starship is the latest high-growth, innovation-driven company to join its national sponsor network — a partnership set to supercharge Starship’s profile, connections, and influence across the UK’s major growth regions.
As part of the new collaboration, Starship will feature prominently in Downtown’s programmes at MIPIM 2026 and UKREiiF 2026, gaining access to premium platforms, curated introductions, and high-value networking opportunities with investors, city leaders, and private-sector heavyweights. Downtown will also support Starship’s wider engagement with senior decision makers across the West Midlands, West Yorkshire, and London — three regions central to the company’s expansion plans.
Downtown Group Chairman and Chief Executive Frank McKenna said:
“Starship is exactly the kind of ambitious, future-focused business we love working with. They innovate, they deliver, and they’re ready to scale — and that’s where Downtown comes in. Through our events at MIPIM, UKREiiF, and our political and business networks across the country, we’ll open the doors that matter. We’re delighted to welcome Dave and the team on board.”
Starship CEO Dave Dargan commented:
“We’re entering a major growth phase, and partnering with Downtown in Business gives us the reach, influence, and connectivity to accelerate that journey. Frank and his team understand how modern cities grow, they know the key players, and they know how to get things done. It’s a perfect match for Starship as we expand our presence in the West Midlands, West Yorkshire, and London, in addition to cementing our position as a leading company in our space in the North West.”
Why Downtown is the Ideal Partner for Starship
With a track record of bringing business leaders together with senior politicians, chief executives, mayors, and top investors, Downtown in Business is uniquely positioned to support companies scaling across the UK’s city-regions. Its influence spans regeneration, property, infrastructure, technology, and innovation — precisely the spaces in which Starship is building momentum.
Through targeted introductions, strategic positioning at flagship events, and access to over 100+ roundtables, leadership lunches, and major awards nights annually, Downtown will ensure Starship is firmly embedded in the conversations that shape policy, investment, and urban growth.
A Partnership Built for Impact
This collaboration places Starship at the heart of Downtown’s national ecosystem — from exclusive political engagement to sector-leading commercial opportunities — ensuring the company strengthens its relationships with decision makers and accelerates its profile as one of the UK’s most exciting growth businesses.
