EventsGreater Manchester’s largest entrepreneurs festival returns for 2025 

Greater Manchester’s largest entrepreneurs festival returns for 2025 

GM Business Growth Hub is bringing its Festival of Enterprise back for the third time – welcoming start-ups, entrepreneurs, sole traders and the self-employed.
Taking place on Friday (March 14), the Royal Exchange Theatre is the ultimate destination for those hoping to launch or expand their business.
Event host EnterprisingYou, GM Business Growth Hub’s flagship support programme for the self-employed and startups in the region, has supported over 4000 entrepreneurs and small businesses, and helped create £13.6 million of revenue across Greater Manchester since 2020.
This year’s Festival of Enterprise has seen a 50% increase in registrations from 2024, and additional tickets have been released this week.
Yvonne Sampson, head of enterprise at GM Business Growth Hub, said: “We’re so excited to be bringing back Festival of Enterprise for the third year. And this time it’s going to be bigger and better than ever. I’m really proud of the amazing speakers and exhibitors we have lined up.
“Running a business, being self-employed is really challenging. But if you allow yourself even just one day for yourself this year, it should be the Festival of Enterprise. I guarantee you’ll come away feeling inspired and ready to do business in 2025.”
This year businesses from across Greater Manchester are speaking and exhibiting at the immersive experience featuring a diverse line-up of inspirational speakers, networking opportunities, and an array of vendors and stalls showcasing innovative products and services in a unique festival atmosphere.
These include small businesses like Koko Blossom, based in Tameside who will be exhibiting at the event.  Laura Brownhill, its founder, said: “I’m excited for the opportunity to have a Koko Blossom stall at the Festival of Enterprise. As well as being a great opportunity to promote the business, I’m looking forward to meeting and learning from fellow entrepreneurs.”
The event will feature inspiring talks from industry experts such as Nadine Merabi – creative director of Nadine Merabi Ltd, James Hamilton – CEO of Pixeltree, Sarah Cross – founder of CODE Beautiful and Jordan Dargue – co-founder of Lifted Ventures on topics such as ‘Mastering Marketing,’ ‘The Power of Exporting,’ and ‘Finance for Success.’
There will also be chances to pitch before a live audience and get feedback, network, and take part in interactive workshops, as well as enjoy live entertainment.
Helen Greaney
Helen Greaney
I'm a journalist with more than 18 years' experience on local, regional and national newspapers, as well as PR and digital marketing. Crime and the courts is my specialist area but I'm also keen to hear your stories concerning Manchester and the greater North West region.
Latest

Manchester charity helping people with rare genetic condition to receive key donation

A total of £1,548 has been raised to support a vital health charity in Greater Manchester. Worsley-based charity Cure Usher Syndrome will receive the contribution...

Awaab Comply Appoints Housing Expert Danny Bird to Drive Awareness of Awaab’s Law

Awaab Comply, the specialist compliance and property safety platform supporting housing providers in meeting the requirements of Awaab's Law, has announced the appointment of...

BJC Logistics Secures Major 2026 Defense Contracts, Expanding High-Security Supply Chain Network

Ventura County firm adds aerospace and AI-defense programs and expands its global distribution network amid rapid revenue growth. VENTURA COUNTY, California. June 8, 2026 - BJC...

How reading at an early age can grow your children into smarter adults

Encouraging your child to start reading at an early age means introducing them to creativity and imagination. It’s the period when young children’s brains are...
Subscribe to our newsletter
Business Manchester will use the information you provide on this form to be in touch with you and to provide updates and marketing.
Don't miss

How to know when your commercial van needs a turbo replacement

For most van drivers, the turbocharger sits somewhere in the background. It does its job, you do yours, and neither of you gives the...

Sapyen Partners with My Surrogacy Journey to Enhance Fertility Support Services Across the U.S.

CALIFORNIA, US. June 4, 2026 – Sapyen, a global leader in male fertility diagnostics, has entered into a strategic partnership with My Surrogacy Journey,...

Setting up your Manchester start-up for success

Manchester has never been a more compelling place to build a business. With a thriving digital economy, a growing investment scene, and a talent pool...

How reading at an early age can grow your children into smarter adults

Encouraging your child to start reading at an early age means introducing them to creativity and imagination. It’s the period when young children’s brains are...

More News

Camp Digital expands ‘Rising Stars’ programme to widen access to the UK’s digital sector

A Manchester-based digital conference is expanding its funded ticket scheme aimed at students, career switchers and early-career professionals, as concerns grow over access and...

Crowd control and event security in Manchester: Ensuring a safe experience for all

Manchester has long been celebrated for its vibrant cultural scene and dynamic business environment, attracting large-scale events ranging from music festivals to sporting events...

Progressive Leadership Festival to debut in May with focus on purpose-driven business

A new gathering aimed at redefining the role of business in society will take place this spring as the Progressive Leadership Festival makes its...