Chelmsford business event highlights city's growth and ambition
Business leaders, entrepreneurs and partners from across the city came together on 24 September, to explore the opportunities shaping Chelmsford's future at the latest Get Better in Chelmsford event.
Around 70 attendees from a broad range of sectors came along to the event.
Held as part of the programme's new Built for Growth series, The Chelmsford Opportunity welcomed around 70 attendees from a broad range of sectors to enjoy a breakfast at Essex County Cricket Club whilst hearing local leaders share ideas and discuss what makes Chelmsford such an attractive place to live, work, invest and do business.
Delivered by Better Agency in partnership with Chelmsford City Council, Get Better in Chelmsford was launched in 2023 to help local businesses develop practical skills, strengthen professional networks and access growth opportunities. Since then, hundreds of businesses have taken part in workshops, events, academy programmes, peer learning sessions and one-to-one support.
Celebrating Chelmsford's strengths
The morning showcased many of the qualities that continue to make Chelmsford a successful and growing city.
Education was highlighted as one of the key reasons people choose to move to Chelmsford, while speakers also reflected on the city's long history of enterprise, innovation and achievement.
Attendees enjoyed a fascinating whistle-stop tour of Chelmsford's 6,000-year history from Spencer Davis of Ellisons Solicitors, who explored how trade, industry and scientific breakthroughs have helped shape the city over the centuries.
His presentation reinforced Chelmsford's long-standing reputation as a place of opportunity, while encouraging businesses to recognise the exciting prospects ahead.
Ambitious plans for Essex Cricket
Dan Feist, CEO of Essex Cricket, shared the club's vision for the future as it celebrates its 150th anniversary.
With around 100,000 visitors attending the club's home ground each year, Essex Cricket is already an important part of Chelmsford's visitor economy.
Dan outlined ambitious plans to further develop the site, including proposals for a hotel and conference facility that could help attract more visitors, support events and strengthen Chelmsford's offer as a destination for business and leisure.
The plans highlighted the role that investment and innovation can play in supporting the city's continued growth.
Speaking at the event, L-R: Dan Feist, CEO of Essex Cricket; Richard Brenkley, CEO of Better Agency and Sara Tupper, CEO of Chelmsford For You.
How to become ‘the answer’ every time
Richard Brenkley, CEO of Better Agency, hosted the event and explored how developments with artificial intelligence are changing the way businesses connect with customers and grow.
His presentation encouraged businesses to think about how they build trust online, maintain a strong digital presence and adapt to changing technology, while continuing to focus on the fundamentals of good customer service and clear communication. He shared food for thought on where AI gets information from, and how to turn your own content into a trusted source AI pulls its answers from.
Reflecting on why these events are so valuable, Richard said:
“"One of the things that makes the Get Better in Chelmsford events special is bringing great people together to learn from one another and celebrate what's happening across the city.
Richard Brenkley, CEO of Better Agency
"The Chelmsford Opportunity was all about showcasing the investment, innovation and ambition that already exists here, while helping businesses build new connections and discover opportunities for growth. The energy in the room was fantastic, and it's clear there's a real appetite to work together to make Chelmsford an even better place to do business.
"We're proud to continue working with Chelmsford City Council on the programme and look forward to welcoming businesses to future events as we explore the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of business."
Chelmsford is “friendly and welcoming”
Freddie Fforde, founder of Patch, shared the story behind the business and explained why Chelmsford was chosen as the company's very first location.
Patch is a growing network of neighbourhood workspaces and event venues, created to support the "work near home" movement.
Freddie described how Chelmsford's entrepreneurial culture, strong sense of community and willingness to embrace new ideas made it the ideal place to launch the concept.
Patch has since expanded to seven locations across the country, but Freddie told attendees that Chelmsford remains one of the friendliest, most welcoming and supportive business communities he has experienced, a sentiment that resonated strongly with many in the room. His presentation reinforced Chelmsford's reputation as a place where businesses can collaborate and grow together – whilst believing you can do what you need to do locally – not just in London!
Supporting a vibrant city centre
Sara Tupper, CEO of Chelmsford For You, reflected on the city's transformation over recent years, including gaining city status in 2012, the opening of Bond Street in 2016 and the formation of the Business Improvement District in 2018.
Representing around 450 businesses, Chelmsford For You continues to support the city centre through events, marketing and initiatives that encourage people to visit, shop and spend time in Chelmsford.
This year also marks 10 years of Bond Street, one of the developments that has helped strengthen the city's retail, leisure and hospitality offer.
Councillor Terry Sherlock, Chelmsford City Council's Cabinet Deputy for Economy and Sustainable Transport, attended the lively event:
“"The Chelmsford Opportunity was a fantastic event that brought together businesses from across the city to share ideas, make connections and explore the opportunities ahead.
Cllr Terry Sherlock, Cabinet Deputy for Economy and Sustainable Transport
"It was fascinating to hear about Chelmsford's rich history and the innovation that has shaped the city over thousands of years, while also learning about the ambitious plans and investment that will help drive its future success.
"What stood out most was the strong sense of collaboration in the room. From established organisations to growing businesses and entrepreneurs, there is a real appetite to work together and make the most of the opportunities being created across Chelmsford. It's clear that Chelmsford is not only a great place to live, but an increasingly attractive place to start, grow and invest in a business."
Attendees enjoyed breakfast and refreshments whilst networking.
Book a space at the next Get Better in Chelmsford event in November
The event highlighted just how much is happening across Chelmsford, from major developments and business investment to community-led initiatives that are helping people connect and succeed locally.
As Chelmsford continues to grow, the Get Better in Chelmsford programme is helping businesses make the most of new opportunities while strengthening the networks and partnerships that make the city such a supportive place to do business.
The next Get Better in Chelmsford event, The AI Growth Lab, will take place on 19 November, continuing the programme's mission to help local businesses access practical support. Reserve a spot at the next Get Better in Chelmsford event.
