The West Midlands Business Festival returns in February 2026. This two-week programme of free events will bring our business community together to ignite innovation, share expertise and spark collaboration.
Organised by Business Growth West Midlands (BGWM), the festival is the region's biggest and most influential annual business-to-business event. There are over 100 events to choose from - all free to attend. Browse by topic, date and area to build your personal festival schedule. Many events are expected to be over-subscribed, so book early to avoid disappointment.
Have your say on the council's budget priorities
The City of Wolverhampton Council annual Budget Consultation is now open, to people who live, work and study in Wolverhampton, as well as visitors to the city.
The survey aims to help the council better understand what services matter most to people as it prepares to set its budget for 2026 to 2027. Your feedback will help shape the council’s approach to setting the budget, so that it reflects what matters most to you.
Complete the survey today and make your voice heard:
Paper copies are available from our Libraries, Family Hubs and at the Civic Centre. Don’t miss your chance to have a say – the survey closes on Friday 16 January.
 Thursday 12th February | 08:00–11:00 | Molinuex Stadium
A chance to hear first hand what the Bank of England outlook is for the UK economy in 2026, to understand what led to the recent round of interest cuts, and to discuss what you need to drive growth in your business.
We are joined by Glyn Jones, Deputy Agent for the Bank of England; Jane Sommerville, MD at Bowers and Jones - recent recipients of the Kings Award for Enterprise; and Professor Martin Levermore MBE, Deputy Lieutenant, West Midlands.
An excellent buffet breakfast and refreshments, fascinating presentations on the UK economy outlook followed by a roundtable discussion on how to unlock barriers to growth and drive innovation. A chance to share your views with the Bank of England, and help shape future business support policy.
This is a by invitation event - if you would like to express your interest in attending please email business.development@wolverhampton.gov.uk
 Winning a Kings Award is widely considered to be a hallmark of business excellence and can bring numerous benefits to the recipient organisation.
The Award can bring numerous benefits to your business, from increased brand recognition and credibility to improved marketing opportunities and access to funding.
If you’re looking to take your business to the next level, consider applying for a Kings Award and start reaping the rewards of your hard work and success.
For further details please email business.devlopment@wolverhampton.gov.uk
 We have a series of Start Up workshops delivered by Access to Business running through to March. Our next 2 are on:
Tuesday 27th & Wednesday 28th February | 09:15–15:30 | A2B Social Enterprise Office, 51 Tempest Street, WV2 1AA
Tuesday 10th & Wednesday 11th February | 09:30–16:00 | A2B Social Enterprise Office, 51 Tempest Street, WV2 1AA
For more information please email contact@ignitehub.co.uk or call 01902 552210
 Accelerate Your Success in 2026
After celebrating 10 years of the NatWest Accelerator in 2025, this January sees a series of exciting new Accelerator events designed to help you connect, learn, and grow your business. Whether you’re looking to network, secure funding, or sharpen your sales skills, they've got something for you!
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Tuesday 20th | 10:00–11:00 – Pitch Club Perfect your pitch and gain valuable feedback.
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Tuesday 22nd | 09:30–14:00 – Sales Accelerator Boost your sales confidence and close more deals.
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Tuesday 22nd | 14:30–16:30 – Social: New Years Games Relax and connect with fellow entrepreneurs in a fun, social setting.
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Tuesday 27th | 09:30–13:30 – Funding Accelerator Another chance to master funding opportunities!
 Powering Business Growth in our City
Tuesday 3rd February | 09:30–16:00 | Molinuex Stadium
Join ambitious start-ups, SMEs, social enterprises and established businesses at the iconic Grand Theatre for Think Local, Grow Global — a full-day business growth event designed to support businesses at every stage
Delivered by Access to Business as part of the West Midlands Business Festival 2026, in partnership with City of Wolverhampton Council Business Growth Team and headline sponsor Talbots Law, this event brings together expert insight, practical support and meaningful connections.
Throughout the day, you’ll have the opportunity to speak directly with businesses and support organisations in attendance, including NatWest, BCRS Business Loans and Oxford Innovation — with more organisations to be announced.
For more information and to book a place click here
 Have you booked a place at the Black Country Chamber Expo?
Thursday 5th February | 10:00–14:00 | Wolverhampton Racecourse Dunstall Park WV6 0PE
Powered by Hashtag events and part of the West Midlands Business Festival, Black Country Chamber of Commerce welcome you to their first expo since 2023. This event is all about connection, collaboration, and showcasing the fantastic work of businesses across the region.
Whether you’re looking to raise your profile, gain new insights or make valuable connections, there’s something for businesses of all sizes.
✅ Discover a wide range of exhibitors and create new business connections.
✅ Showcase your business and network with other attendees to share best practice.
✅ Hear informative insights from our guest speakers to help you improve and strengthen your business.
Ready to book your place?
Book your free delegate place here ➡️ https://booking.wmbf.co.uk/black-country-chamber-expo-powered-by-hashtag-events/
If you’re interested in exhibiting, find out more here ➡️ https://www.cognitoforms.com/HashtagEvents1/BlackCountryChamberExpoBookingForm
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