In summary
This month brings key opportunities for small businesses to connect, influence, and grow.
Have your say in Hull’s City Vision consultation, explore business potential with the Doncaster-Sheffield Airport redevelopment, and register for upcoming networking events like the Lincolnshire Women in Enterprise Forum and FSB Bootcamp.
Plus, don’t miss the Mayoral Hustings in Hull & East Yorkshire and Greater Lincolnshire—your chance to hear from candidates on the region’s future.
Featured news and events
Shape the Future of Hull’s City Vision – Have Your Say!
Hull City Centre Vision is a 20-year initiative designed to drive regeneration and investment, making the city centre a more attractive place to live, work, and do business. With six key goals—Liveable, Productive, Child-Friendly, Resilient, Distinctive, and Healthy—the plan aims to create a thriving and sustainable hub for businesses, residents, and visitors alike. The decisions made today will impact the local economy, workforce, and business environment for decades to come. From supporting job creation and enhancing infrastructure to fostering innovation and sustainability, this vision could shape Hull’s commercial future, talent pipeline, and investment opportunities. Now is the time to have your say and influence the direction of Hull’s transformation. Your feedback can help ensure that business needs are recognised and prioritised. To take the survey and find out visit the Hull Visions Website
FSB Lincolnshire Women in Enterprise Forum – Networking Event in Grimsby
Join us on Wednesday, 19th March 2025, from 5:15 PM to 6:45 PM at Tilletts Superstore, Unit 1B, Wilton Road, Grimsby, DN36 4AW, for an evening of networking and collaboration. This event, sponsored by Tilletts Superstore and supported by My Credit Controllers, offers a relaxed atmosphere to connect with fellow female entrepreneurs and business leaders from across Lincolnshire. Event Highlights:
- Networking Opportunities: Engage with like-minded professionals to share experiences, ideas, and potential collaborations;
- Informal Setting: Enjoy light refreshments in a casual environment—no formal presentations or pitches, just meaningful conversations.
This is the first Lincolnshire Women in Enterprise Forum meeting in North East Lincolnshire, making it a unique opportunity to expand your professional network in the region. Secure your free spot today
Mayoral Hustings in HEY & Greater Lincolnshire
The Federation of Small Businesses has joined forces with the CBI, Future Humber, Make UK and Hull and Humber Chambers to host two Mayoral Hustings. The first of which in Greater Lincolnshire will take place on the 2 of April, and Hull and East Riding taking place on the 24 April. A hustings is an opportunity for the business community to hear from the Mayoral candidates, joining together on a panel to present on their thoughts and plans for the area - based on key questions asked of each of the panel members. Attendees will also get the opportunity to ask their own questions and network with others across the business community. Place are limited, with one place per business, however if you are an FSB member and wish to attend please email the relevant area FSB Development Manager:
In other news
South Yorkshire Airport City: Opportunities for Small Businesses
The South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority (SYMCA) has allocated £10 million to support the redevelopment of Doncaster-Sheffield Airport, with ambitions to resume flights by 2026. This funding will back Fly Doncaster, a new subsidiary working with Munich Airport International to deliver long-term operational plans, with a full investment decision expected by summer 2025. For small businesses, this project will bring significant opportunities:
- Boosted Local Economy – Increased footfall and business activity, supporting retail, hospitality, and service providers.
- Expanded Trade & Logistics – Improved regional connectivity could enhance export potential and supply chain efficiencies.
- Job Creation & Skills Development – More employment opportunities mean a stronger local workforce, benefitting recruitment and business growth.
- Gateway for Innovation – Plans for advanced manufacturing and sustainable aviation could open doors for local businesses to collaborate and innovate.
This investment signals a major step towards re-opening the airport.
Barnsley Business Expo – Elevate Your Business
Join us on Thursday, 26 June (10am-3pm) at the Priory Centre, Pontefract Road, Lundwood, S71 5PN, for the Barnsley Business Expo. This event is designed to create opportunities for businesses of all sizes.
- Expand Your Network: Connect with industry leaders, potential partners, and a diverse community of professionals.
- Gain Insights: Learn from expert speakers who will share actionable strategies to enhance your business.
- Showcase Your Brand: Exhibitor spaces are available to increase your brand's visibility and attract new clients.
- Stay Informed: Discover the latest industry trends and technologies to keep your business competitive.
Arrive early— I hear that the first 100 attendees will receive a complimentary bag of goodies! Don't miss this opportunity to propel your business forward. Reserve your spot today! Visit here for details and email [email protected] or [email protected] for more information or to discuss stand opportunities.
Still in the news
South Yorkshire networking, by FSB and HSBC - 3 Apr
Connect, collaborate, and grow at FSB's Sheffield networking event with HSBC—bringing South Yorkshire's businesses together. Make new introductions, connect with new contacts, and expand your network at our business networking event with HSBC.
We're delighted to host this event in Sheffield (9.30-11.30am), at Electric Works, a thriving hub for startups, business and innovation.
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>
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