Join the Essex Chambers of Commerce at our third Festival of Business. This unmissable event for entrepreneurs, job seekers, and business enthusiasts will take place on Wednesday 13th November at Chelmsford City Racecourse. Bigger than ever before we’re bringing our community a business extravaganza like no other, combining an exhibition, jobs fair, programme of expert Keynote Speakers and for the first year the Essex has Talent – Best in Business Award. 

This is set to be our biggest Festival yet. After two years of holding our flagship event at the stunning Hylands House, 2024 sees us relocate to Chelmsford City Racecourse ensuring we remain central to businesses in Essex as well as expanding our offering of festival features. 

Each Festival of Business has a different theme. Our inaugural event in 2022 looked at the importance of diversity and inclusion in Essex and last year we explored our changing business landscape. 2024’s theme is “Essex Has Talent” which aims to showcase and celebrate the extraordinary entrepreneurial ability within the county. 

The heart of the Festival lies in its expansive exhibition, a perfect platform for businesses to promote and connect with their wider community. Attendees can explore a rich tapestry of industries, from technology and finance to hospitality and professional services, gaining insights into the latest trends and innovations shaping the business landscape. 

The expo this year will have an even bigger impact as we introduce a dedicated Jobs Fair section. Whether you are on the lookout for a career move or seeking fresh talent in your business the Festival is the place to bridge occupational opportunities for both employers and job seekers.  

As always there will be a fantastic line-up of gracing our festival stage. This year we are calling all Great British Bake Off fans to join us - We are thrilled to reveal the legendary Dame Prue Leith will be a keynote speaker at this year’s Festival of Business! Hear Prue share her incredible journey from restaurateur to TV icon, and gain valuable insights into entrepreneurship, creativity, and success. This is a can’t-miss opportunity to be inspired by one of the UK’s most respected business figures. During her illustrious career Prue also became a sought-after non-executive director for major companies. Her first appointment was to the board of British Rail, followed by appointments to the boards of Safeway, Whitbread, Woolworths, Belmond (formerly Orient Express Hotels), to name a few! 

We are delighted to introduce the Essex Has Talent – Best in Business Award. Exclusively open to our exhibitors, they will have the opportunity to compete to be named the Best in Business on the day of the Festival. Our finalists will each have the opportunity to pitch to our elite panel of judges before the winner is announced. This is a great opportunity for entrants to showcase their business’s triumphs to gain deserved recognition and a tremendous accolade. 

Seize opportunities at the most anticipated business extravaganza in Essex. With over 600 attendees to last year’s Festival there is unapparelled potential for you to forge valuable connections and expand your network. 

The Festival of Business is where success meets celebration. More than a business expo it is an event that applauds and showcases the tremendous talent we have in Essex. Make sure you’re apart of the celebrations. 

Visit our dedicated Festival website to find out how you can get involved with this year’s event and how to book your FREE visitor tickets.