Thirty events confirmed across the country- with more announcements to come
Downtown in Business has unveiled its biggest and most ambitious autumn events programme to date, with 30 events already confirmed between September and the end of 2026.
The programme will bring together business leaders, investors, politicians, policymakers and senior public-sector decision-makers for a packed schedule of conferences, roundtables, awards ceremonies and exclusive leadership events across the country.
Among the highlights will be DIB’s annual regeneration conference in September, fringe events at both the Labour and Conservative Party conferences, and major awards celebrations in Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool.
DIB will also host a series of exclusive events with prominent local government leaders, including Joanne Roney, Managing Director of Birmingham City Council; Tom Stannard, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council; and Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram.
Football’s contribution to regeneration and economic growth will also feature prominently. EFL Chief Executive Rick Parry will speak at a special event in Birmingham, while Karen Hirst will lead a discussion in Manchester focusing on the transformational regeneration opportunity surrounding Old Trafford.
Other speakers confirmed across the autumn programme include Chris Oglesby of Bruntwood SciTech; Cllr Gavin White of Manchester City Council; Neil Rami of the West Midlands Growth Company; Lady Lucy French of the Fleet Street Quarter BID; and Naomi Smith, Chief Executive of Best for Britain.
In Leeds, DIB will host an exclusive Leaders Lunch with Ruth Davidson, the former leader of the Scottish Conservative Party.
Downtown in Business Group Chair and Chief Executive Frank McKenna said:
“This is without question one of the most ambitious events programmes we have ever delivered.
“Between September and the end of the year, Downtown in Business will host at least 30 events, bringing together some of the most influential figures from business, politics and local government.
“From regeneration, devolution and economic growth to football, politics and the celebration of business success, we will be tackling the issues that are shaping the future of our cities and regions.
“However, DIB events have never simply been about who is speaking from the stage. Their real value comes from getting the right people in the room, encouraging honest conversations, creating new relationships and generating opportunities for our members.
“At a time when collaboration between the public and private sectors has never been more important, our autumn programme will ensure that the business community is not merely commenting on the big decisions – it is helping to influence them.
“Thirty events in four months is a serious undertaking, but we wouldn’t have it any other way. It is going to be a hugely exciting autumn for Downtown in Business -and there is still much more to be announced.” For further information contact events@downtowninbusiness.com
