Ipswich’s first business week has been hailed an overwhelming success – with an ‘outstanding response’ from the town’s businesses.
The Ipswich Business: Thrive Week, from March 10 to March 18, organised by Ipswich Borough Council, saw a host of activity across the town with almost 1,800 people visiting more than 40 events across the town - from business workshops to networking meet-ups.
Councillor Neil MacDonald, Ipswich Borough Council’s Leader and Portfolio Holder for Economic Development, said: “The sheer diversity of industries involved, and the incredible level of engagement have truly showcased Ipswich as a thriving hub for business and innovation.
"Ipswich’s first business week has been a huge success, with an outstanding response from the town’s business community.
“The overwhelming support and enthusiasm make it clear – this is just the beginning of something great for Ipswich’s business landscape."
Dozens of businesses from Ipswich and the surrounding area came together to celebrate and showcase the best of the town’s flourishing business community, sharing ideas and forming new partnerships.
Highlights included a DWP Jobs Fair, visited by more than 700 people, a well-attended Tech East event showcasing Ipswich’s thriving tech community and a successful leisure, tourism and hospitality event at St Stephen’s Church hosted by Larking Gowen.
Tim Robinson, COO of Tech East, said: “Tech East was so proud to be part of Thrive Week which brought together Ipswich’s vibrant business community to learn, and make valuable new connections through networking.
“We loved running our Tech Mixer and were so pleased at the turnout and feedback – we’ll definitely be back next year.”
Peter Basford, from the Business Growth Coaches Network added: "It has been great seeing the Ipswich business community come together and show what can be done to promote the many positive things that are going on in the county town of Suffolk.”
The event has received hugely positive feedback, with calls for the event to return next year.
Kate Baines, Director of Virtual Prestige, said she was ‘blown away’ by the support the event had received.
She said: “I was impressed with the diversity of industries that wanted to be involved, really showcasing the thriving local business economy and community that we have in Ipswich.
“I was blown away by the engagement of local businesses wanting to take part, the uptake to be part of the week was beyond anyone’s expectations and truly outstanding.”
Events covered almost all industry sectors including:
- Professional services
- Voluntary, community and social enterprises (VCSE)
- Technology and IT
- High Street retailers
- Leisure
- Tourism
- Hospitality
- Private equity
- Creatives
- Culture
- Arts
- Education