Saturday 25 January 2025: The biggest and best start-up event of the new year

Inspiring entrepreneurs and industry leaders will share their journeys of innovation, resilience and success. Hear how they've transformed their ideas, overcome challenges and disrupted industries.

This stage offers powerful insights into the mindset and strategies that truly drive lasting business success. Get ready to be motivated!

This keynote stage is powered by Constant Contact. Constant Contact offers email and digital marketing tools that make it easy for your small business or non-profit to get the attention and revenue it deserves.

10.15am–11am: Believing in your mission: Co-founders of SURI

Mark Rushmore and Gyve Safavi are two former advertising professionals who founded SURI, a brand focused on sustainability. Aiming to disrupt a waste-heavy industry, they created a recyclable electric toothbrush.

Despite initial challenges with manufacturers, their product gained traction, earning £3 million in its first year and being stocked in major retailers. With a subscription service and plans for expansion, SURI is now a growing symbol of conscious consumerism.

Join this session to be inspired by two ambitious co-founders who were determined never to give up, despite many people telling them that what they were trying to achieve was impossible.

11.30am–12.15pm: Winning the hearts, minds and spending of consumers

• Chris Baker, co-founder of Serious Tissues

• Will Pearson, co-founder, Ocean Bottle

• Susan Allen, co-founder, Here We Flo

A rising tide of "change brands" is emerging across the world and acting as powerful catalysts to tackle some of the biggest problems facing humanity. Brands such as Ocean Bottle and Here We Flo are putting legacy companies under pressure by winning consumers' hearts, minds and spending.

The co-founders of these brands will join Chris Baker, co-founder of Change Please and author of Obsolete, on stage to explain why one of the best ways to change the world is to create a purpose-driven brand. They'll also touch on why many legacy brands and business models will be in danger of becoming obsolete in the next decade if they don't radically reconsider how they do things.

12.30pm–1.15pm: Fighting food waste, one curvy cucumber at a time

Deepak Ravindran is the co-founder of Oddbox, the UK's first sustainable fruit and veg box delivery service. Deepak has been instrumental in rescuing over 40,000 tonnes of fresh produce that would otherwise go to waste, supporting farmers and promoting sustainability.

Hear him talk about his innovative approach to combating environmental challenges and how he's positioned Oddbox as a leading force in the fight against food waste, climbing to revenues of over £32 million.

2.15pm–3pm: What it takes to turn a passion project into a sustainable business

• Emma Barnett, journalist, BBC

• Jeremy Weil, Economist's Editorial Intelligence Unit

Emma Barnett and Jeremy Weil co-founded their family business Colour Your Streets in 2024, not long after their daughter was born. Inspired by their pram walks around their local neighbourhood with their older son, they were surprised to learn local colouring books of people's areas didn't exist.

So they created one: "Colour In Brixton", swiftly followed by "Colour In Herne Hill". Now the Colour Your Streets family numbers over 100 books, with more being added each week.

The duo are now mapping the UK and the world with their colouring books and love their many bespoke commissions too. Described by the Guardian as "a family business grounded in community and curiosity", Colour Your Streets is also diversifying into colouring-in biscuits and posters.

Explore the future of digital marketing with industry experts. From AI to social media, learn how to create and market high-impact content on a budget and use cutting-edge tools to accelerate your start-up's success.

Head to this stage for practical, game-changing insights into staying ahead in a fast-paced digital world.

This stage is powered by Vodafone Business. Keeping pace with digital development can be challenging. Vodafone Business is constantly investing in new technologies to provide a platform for businesses of all sizes to innovate, achieve and stay connected.

10.15am–11am: Supercharge your organic marketing strategy

Join Lorna Bladen, chief marketing officer at Enterprise Nation, for a session on how to supercharge your organic marketing to cut through the noise.

Lorna will guide you through how to craft a brand story that resonates deeply, drawing on insights from leading UK start-ups and proven strategies for creating genuine, emotional connections through content. In this session, you'll discover how to:

• shape a consistent, impactful message that speaks to your audience's challenges

• encourage user-generated content that builds trust and authenticity

• cultivate a loyal, supportive community around your brand

Lorna will also share advanced tips on gathering customer feedback, using digital tools to boost engagement and conversions, and – above all – making the process enjoyable for you and your audience.

11.30am–12.15pm: Harnessing AI for small and medium businesses

In a world where efficiency is key, small and medium businesses are discovering the game-changing potential of artificial intelligence (AI).

Marketing trainer Kristian Downer will explore practical ways to use AI tools to streamline operations, reduce repetitive tasks and improve decision-making. From automating workflows to improving customer insights, he'll dive into accessible AI solutions that can boost productivity without a massive tech overhaul.

In this session, you'll:

• discover user-friendly AI solutions that can handle routine tasks, freeing up time for high-impact activities

• find out how to leverage AI insights to make smarter, faster business decisions

• gain insight into automation in workflows, boosting productivity and efficiency

12.30pm–1.15pm: Mastering engaging social media content in 2025

• Asti Wagner, founder, Invyted

• Alison Battisby, founder, Avocado Social

• Moyin Odeniran, founder, Mr Desserts

In today's digital landscape, creating impactful social media content doesn't require a large budget or a big team – just smart strategies and creative thinking. Join a panel of entrepreneurs and marketing experts as they share proven methods for crafting high-quality social media content with limited resources.

Learn how to make the most of your team's strengths, take advantage of free and low-cost tools and prioritise your efforts for the greatest impact. From content planning and creation to expanding your engagement and reach, this session will equip you with actionable insights to elevate your brand's online presence without breaking the bank.

2.15pm–3pm: Tech up your business: Digital tools for productivity and growth

• Polly Dhaliwal, COO, Enterprise Nation

• James Mayes, co-founder, Mind the Product

• Fab Giovanetti, CEO, Alt Marketing School

Join a dynamic panel of innovative experts and entrepreneurs who have mastered the art of using digital tools to drive productivity and accelerate growth. Hear first-hand stories of their challenges and successes and gain practical tips that you can apply right away.

This session is packed with actionable insights to fuel your own digital transformation. Get ready to boost your business with proven strategies!

3.15pm–4pm: Mastering online storytelling for maximum results

• Lucy Werner, founder, Hype Yourself

• Eniye Okah, founder, BEAME

• Ryan Panchoo, co-founder, Borough 22 Donuts

Captivating storytelling is essential for building a brand that resonates and stands out. Join this panel discussion to learn how to craft compelling online narratives that engage your audience, build trust and drive business results.

From defining your brand's voice to using social media and content marketing effectively, our panel of experts will share tips to help you tell stories that stick. Whether you're just starting out or looking to make more of your storytelling, this session is packed with guidance to take your brand's online presence to the next level. 

Master the art of raising capital, managing finances and making the most of grant funding. 

A panel of experts and entrepreneurs – including Dragons' Den contestants – will tell you how to secure business finance from a range of sources and ways to build connections with investors. 

This stage will teach you the financial tools and insight you need to take your business into its next phase of growth. 

10.15am–11am: How to access funding and grants to supercharge your start-up journey

• Ian Brotherston, Innovate UK

• Katie Eldred, senior country manager, Vista

• Jonny Cottom, founder, Breakbottle

• Matt Dyson, co-founder, Rockit

Tailored for start-ups that are looking to scale without giving up equity, this session will provide in-depth insights into the process of identifying, applying for and securing grants.

Learn from experts and successful founders who have navigated government and private grant programmes to fund their growth. The panel will cover what types of grants are available, how to write a winning application and how to make sure you're meeting the grant programme's eligibility criteria.

11.30am–12:15pm: Our lessons from raising cash: From the entrepreneurs who have done it!

• Hector Hughes, founder, Unplugged

• Royden Greaves, CEO and founder, Jarvis

Looking to raise capital for your business? Learn directly from seasoned entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated the funding process.

In this session, you'll hear first-hand experiences and get actionable advice on securing funding from investors who have "been there and done it". Discover how to craft a compelling pitch, build relationships with investors and avoid the common pitfalls along the way.

12.30pm–1.15pm: Building and selling a business for £36.8 million

• Joanna Jensen, founder, Child's Farm

As one of Britain's most successful business founders and an active investor in start-ups, Joanna Jensen has a wealth of experience. She founded the multi-award-winning baby and child personal care brand Child's Farm in 2010.

Created as a solution to her own daughter's sensitive and eczema-prone skin, the brand launched into mainstream retailers Boots and Waitrose in 2014 and became the number-one brand in the baby and child segment in 2019. It disrupted and reduced the market share of other more established brands like Johnson's Baby.

In March 2022, Joanna sold Child's Farm for £36.8 million to PZ Cussons Plc, the personal care company and owner of well-known brands Imperial Leather, St. Tropez and Carex. While still involved in the business, she now invests in 13 other brands. Joanna is also the chair of the EIS Association, where she supports entrepreneurs across the UK by raising awareness of the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS).

2.15pm–3pm: Appearing on Dragons' Den and what happened next

• Zoe Chapman, founder, Kiddiwhizz

• Isaac Tambini, founder, Pola Poles

What is it really like to go on Dragons' Den? How does the investment work? How far do the Dragons involve themselves in your business? What happens after the show has aired? Get all your burning Dragons' Den questions answered by a panel of entrepreneurs who have appeared on the show!

3.15pm–4pm: Unlocking growth: When and where to raise and access capital

Securing the right funding at the right time is essential for growth. This session explores when to raise or access capital and the most effective sources for each stage of a business, from funding in the very early days to finance for international expansion.

Learn about various funding options – venture capital, private equity and debt financing – and how to align your financing with your ambitions for growth. Get actionable advice you can use to make informed decisions and unlock your company's potential.

Your brand is key to success – whether you're launching or growing. 

Join creative entrepreneurs and industry experts for hands-on talks about branding strategies, going viral, pitching to small business journalists and building your personal brand. 

10:15am–11am: Key strategies to build and grow a brand without big budgets

This expert-led workshop by Kiki Bhaur will take a deep dive into two areas:

• Developing a clear, actionable brand strategy: This covers the basics of building a solid foundation for a brand. You’ll learn how to define what your brand stands for by looking at elements such as your mission, vision, purpose and unique value proposition. The focus will be on creating a strategy that keeps everything aligned and consistent.

• Executing cost-effective tactics for growing a brand: Here, you'll explore practical, low-cost ways to get people to notice your brand. You'll get tips on using social media effectively and creating valuable content, and learn other smart tactics that don’t require a big budget but can make a huge impact.

You’ll walk away with ideas you can start using right away to grow your brand.

12:30pm–1.15pm: Meet the journalists

• Liz Slee, head of media, Enterprise Nation

• Angharad Carrick, reporter, This is Money, Mail Online

• Simon Hunt, editor, UKTN

• Jenny Sieg, SME correspondent, City AM

Join a panel of experienced small business journalists as they share tips on how to effectively pitch your brand to the press. Learn what makes a story stand out, how to craft compelling press releases and how to build valuable media relationships.

Whether you’re launching a product or growing your business, this session will equip you with the tools to get your story in front of the right audience.

2.15pm–3pm: How to build your personal brand as a founder

In this talk, discover the power of personal branding to set yourself – and your business – apart. Learn how to define and communicate your unique story, values and vision as a founder, creating a brand that resonates with investors, customers and industry peers.

This session covers practical strategies for building credibility, engaging audiences authentically and using social media and other platforms to enhance your brand's visibility and influence.

3.15pm–4pm: Generating pre-launch hype: Effective tactics to create buzz around your brand

The London opening of Sandwich Sandwich attracted huge crowds, highlighting the brand's viral appeal and celebrity fanbase. Hear from co-founder Josh Kleiner about the company's rise to fame and its ambitious plans for further expansion in the UK and beyond.

The stage is your go-to resource for mastering the business essentials. Talks will cover everything you need to know to grow your business – from product development and cash flow to e-commerce strategies and pitching to buyers. 

Learn from entrepreneurs who've landed in major retailers and take away practical tips to scale your start-up.

This stage is powered by GS1 UK, the only authorised provider of barcodes, providing a solid foundation for businesses of all sizes to sell their products both online and in-store, worldwide. GS1 UK membership equips businesses with the essential tools, knowledge and expertise needed to unlock global opportunities and drive growth.

You'll also have the chance to explore the following zones: 

• Connect with business support organisations in the exhibition zone 

• Book a 1-2-1 session with experts and mentors in the adviser zone 

• Meet the team in the Enterprise Nation zone