In summary
Welcome to the January 2025 Newsletter!
Start the year with a host of exciting opportunities to connect. This edition features dynamic networking events like our South Yorkshire networking with HSBC, FSB Elevenses in Hull and Barnsley’s Knowledge Swap. Don’t miss registering for Doncaster’s Business Bootcamp, collaboration and connectivity taking centre stage. Discover training through Skills Bootcamps, explore degree apprenticeship opportunities, become an FSB event host, or a Humber Place Ambassador.
Full details below!
Featured news and events
South Yorkshire Networking: A Partnership with HSBC and FSB
On 3 Apr, Join us for a dynamic networking opportunity in Sheffield. Designed to help small business owners connect, collaborate, and thrive in South Yorkshire. Hosted in partnership with HSBC, this event provides an excellent chance to meet fellow entrepreneurs, share ideas, and explore potential partnerships. Whether you’re looking to make new connections, catch up with old acquaintances, or simply learn from others in the business community, this relaxed and informal setting is perfect for fostering valuable relationships. This is more than just a networking event—it’s a chance to gain insights into the regional business landscape, hear about success stories, and understand how you can adapt and grow your own business. HSBC’s team will also be on hand to share their expertise and support for small business owners.
Business Bootcamp in Doncaster: Collaboration and Connectivity Ready to take your business to the next level?
The Business Bootcamp in Doncaster is your chance to dive into a day of collaboration, learning, and connection. Designed for small business owners, this event will feature engaging expert speakers, with a focus on practical, actionable advice to help you overcome challenges, discover new opportunities, and strengthen your business. From mastering digital tools to building effective partnerships, the sessions are tailored to provide value across a wide range of industries. You’ll also have the chance to connect with local and regional business support organisations, gain insights into funding opportunities, and learn about resources available to help your business succeed. Networking breaks and interactive activities ensure you leave with new contacts and ideas to implement right away. To be held on the 20 May, registration is now open, the event also offers opportunities for showcasing your business at a mini exhibition (stands go quick so early booking advised).
Find out more details and book your place here>
FSB Elevenses, Hull - 3 Mar
Looking for a relaxed and informal networking opportunity? Join us for FSB Elevenses at McCoys in Hull—a perfect setting for small group conversations and meaningful connections. Whether you’re a long-time business owner or just starting out, this event offers a supportive environment to share ideas, seek advice, and build relationships with other local business owners. We’re proud to support McCoys, a local FSB member and vibrant hospitality venue. Attendees are encouraged to purchase refreshments to support the business, and as a thank-you, McCoys will be offering vouchers for your next visit. This event isn’t about large numbers or formal presentations—it’s about genuine conversations and valuable connections. Plus, you’ll have the chance to meet with me as your local FSB Development Manager, who can provide insight into FSB’s resources and initiatives and campaigns. For early booking please email me to secure your spot.
In other news
Barnsley Networking: Knowledge Swap and Collaboration – 20 Feb
Kickstart your business year with our quarterly Barnsley Knowledge Swap and Networking event, designed to bring small business owners together to share insights, ideas, and opportunities. Held in a supportive and welcoming environment, this event is perfect for building connections. Each session includes a mix of structured (but relaxed) activities and free networking time, allowing you to learn from others’ experiences while also sharing your own. Whether you’re looking to find new clients, build partnerships, or simply exchange knowledge, this event has something for everyone. With a focus on community and collaboration, attendees consistently find these sessions a valuable use of their time, returning to subsequent events to strengthen and grow their networks. We’re excited to welcome you to the first session of 2025 as we continue to build a strong small business community in Barnsley.
Virtual Networking: New Year, New Hosts, Fresh Connections
The ever-popular FSB virtual networking events are back for 2025! Taking place every third Thursday of the month, these online sessions are perfect for busy business owners who want to connect, share, and learn from the comfort of their home or office. This year, we’re introducing an exciting opportunity for members to host these events. If you’re passionate about connecting people, enjoy building relationships, or want to showcase your expertise, we’d love to hear from you!
As a host, you’ll:
- Facilitate meaningful connections
- Share insights through “top tips from your host”
- Expand your own network while helping others grow theirs
Even if you’re new to hosting, we’ll support you every step of the way. These events are a great way to boost your profile while contributing to the success of the FSB community. Book your place on our 16 January virtual network and discover our first member host of the year – Liz Drury of Liz Drury Voiceovers. Interested in hosting - Email [email protected] to express your interest and learn more.
Still in the news
Become a Humber Place Ambassador
Are you passionate about the Humber region? Join us in shaping perceptions and promoting pride as a Humber Place Ambassador! Following last year’s online FSB event discussing the Humber Place Narrative, we’re moving to the next stage by seeking small business leaders to embody and champion our place brand values: Revolutionary, Resourceful, Real, and Remarkable. As a Place Ambassador, you’ll play a key role in embedding these values into the heart of the Humber’s business community.
This isn’t about adding to your workload—it’s about inspiring pride and excellence in everything we do as a region. Whether it’s through events, communications, or day-to-day decision-making, you’ll help showcase the Humber’s strengths to the world. The first Place Ambassador meeting will bring together stakeholders to share best practices, explore hero projects, and learn from place experts. Even if you can’t attend the January meeting, future opportunities will be available. The first meeting takes place on 16 January. Email Leahann Barnes or phone on 07836 387699 to nominate yourself or a colleague.
Skills Bootcamps Across Humber and North Yorkshire
Upskill your workforce competition with Skills Bootcamps. The TEC Partnership provide fully funded, flexible training programmes are designed to equip your team with cutting-edge skills in areas like digital technologies, green energy, leadership, and more. Whether you’re looking to enhance your team’s capabilities or provide employees with professional development opportunities, Skills Bootcamps are a cost-effective solution tailored to meet the needs of businesses across the Humber and North Yorkshire. With a focus on practical skills and real-world application, these courses are invaluable for small businesses aiming to grow in today’s fast-paced economy. Programmes are available for a wide range of industries and are taught by experienced professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by small businesses.
Degree Apprenticeships: Upskill Your Team for Success
Looking for a way to grow your business and develop your team? Degree apprenticeships offer a unique opportunity to upskill existing employees or bring in new talent while ensuring they gain hands-on experience and academic qualifications. FSB members are invited to join Sheffield Hallam during National Apprenticeship Week 2025 to learn how degree apprenticeships can benefit your business. Hear from Sheffield Hallam University’s Employer Partnerships Team and regional businesses that have successfully integrated these programmes into their workforce.
This event takes place on 11 Feb (8.30 - 11.30am) and will cover:
- Identifying the right programme for your business
- Attracting top talent with free recruitment support
- Understanding onboarding processes, course delivery, and assessment
- Ensuring ongoing support for apprentices.
Sheffield Hallam offers nearly 40 degree apprenticeship programmes, covering fields like engineering, digital technology, healthcare, and more. Whether you’re in construction, leadership, or creative industries, there’s a programme to meet your needs. Email [email protected] or call 0114 225 5000 for more information.
More news and activity near you
- North Yorkshire
- West Yorkshire
- North East England
- More from FSB Yorkshire, the Humber and the North East West
Get in touch
Your FSB Development Manager South & East Yorkshire and Humber is Paula Gouldthorpe. If you'd like to get in touch about any of the topics above, or if you have news and information about this area that you'd like to share, please get in touch.
- email us: [email protected]
- follow us on X: @FSBSEYorksHumb
- follow us on Facebook: @FSB.South.East.Yorkshire.Humber