Over 400 business representatives from across the country attended Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership’s Eighth Annual Conference - the seventh consecutive one organised by Opening Doors & Venues. The Conference has grown its reputation as one of Worcestershire’s biggest business events over the past eight years. BBC Reporter and Radio Expert, Kate Russell, hosted the Conference while keynote speaker, Tiffany St James, gave an insightful presentation on the innovation of digital tech, with plenty of actionable ideas for the audience.

A total of 19 speakers shared their knowledge on the latest innovative developments led by the LEP, and how these projects are helping to boost productivity, tackle the skills shortage and strengthen connectivity. The Conference covered topics ranging from inward investment, to 5G, BetaDen and the LEP’s 2040 vision for the county. This years' Conference was a launching pad for:  ‘Creating our Future Workforce’ campaign and the new 'Worcestershire brand' . 

The morning event started with an invitation only Business Leaders' Briefing for approximately 100 Chief Executives and Managing Directors.  The 'satellite' event offered participants the opportunity to hear from some of the biggest brands to have recently invested in the county on why they made Worcestershire their business home. Attendees also had access to a vibrant exhibition, the largest one yet, which included stands from the 6 conference sponsors and media partner, Business & Innovation Magazine. 

Worcestershire Youth Jazz Orchestra provided the now traditional musical opening. To make the most of the space available in the Regent Centre and to also visually refresh the look of the conference which has used the Chateau Impney as its home for the past 5 years, we opted for a mixture of cabaret and theatre seating with a panel positioned on a lower extended stage. The conference used the tried and tested RF voting pad technique and was live streamed online.