In summary
Welcome to the latest newsletter.
At last, the days are getting a little longer and I’ve even seen a few crocuses pop out their heads. If you want to make sure you’re getting full value from your membership, then why not arrange a quick online one to one with me. My details are below. I always really enjoy getting the opportunity to find out a bit more about members and their businesses.
Many thanks, Barney.
Featured news and events
Get social with the FSB
We run regular networking events in West Yorkshire. They are free to attend and are always lively events where many connections are made. If you are unsure what to expect, then take a look at this video made for us by Olympix Media. We make sure our events are relaxed and friendly to make it easy to make new connections. All our events can be found on the FSB events calendar.
Could you be the next FSB Regional Chair?
We are currently seeking nominations from FSB members in Yorkshire, the Humber and the North East to become our new, regional Chair with effect from 1st April 2025. Working alongside staff the regional Chair promotes and champions FSB to external stakeholders and audiences, supports our lobbying on issues important to local businesses and supports activity and membership growth within the region. To find out more, request a copy of the full role description, please contact [email protected]. Deadline Thursday 13 February. Selection will take place between 14 and 28 February.
West Yorkshire online networking – every Tuesday morning
At 10am every Tuesday we run an online networking session. Many business owners tell us that they don’t like online networking – if that is the case then you haven’t been to our Tuesday morning networking. Hosted by Merewyn Sayers, from Sayers Solutions, the one-hour sessions help you make new connections but will also make you laugh. Our networking proves that online networking does not have to be stale and boring.
In other news
West Yorkshire Innovation Festival
This year's West Yorkshire Innovation Festival will take place from Monday 3 to Friday 7 March. The Festival brings together businesses, entrepreneurs, academics and support providers who are making amazing things happen in West Yorkshire. The Festival celebrates the innovations that are being made today, while inspiring the next wave of innovations for the future. The aim is to help you turn your big ideas into reality.
Apprentices
Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair is on Wednesday 12 February. Free tickets are available to book anytime between 1pm-7pm. Book your ticket here - Leeds Apprenticeship Recruitment Fair 2025.
Still in the news
West Yorkshire Growth Plan
On 12 Dec, the Combined Authority announced the ten-year Local Growth Plan – a plan to transform West Yorkshire, adding £26bn to the UK economy and creating 33,000 new jobs. It sets out a commitment to invest £7bn in supporting business growth, skills development, transport infrastructure and the creation of vibrant, sustainable communities over the next 10 years.
Their work is underpinned by five key priorities:
- Boosting our fastest-growing business sectors
- Supporting businesses to grow and succeed
- Building a region of learning and creativity
- Creating a better-connected and integrated transport network
- Developing thriving places with warm and affordable homes
Business Bootcamp - Doncaster
Following our successful bootcamp last year we are returning to Doncaster in May. The theme is collaboration, and it will be a great opportunity to meet other business owners as well as hearing inspirational and knowledgeable speakers. Tickets are £10 for members and if last year is anything to go by it is an event that you will not want to miss.
More news and activity near you
- North East
- North Yorkshire
- South and East Yorkshire and the Humber
- More from FSB Yorkshire, the Humber and the North East
Get in touch
Your FSB Development Manager for West Yorkshire is Barney Mynott. If you'd like more information about the topics above, or if you have news about this area that you'd like to share, please get in touch.
- email us: [email protected]
- follow us on X: @FSBwestyorks
- follow us on Facebook: @FSB.West.Yorkshire
- join me on LinkedIn: @Barney Mynott