Events

Event details:

When: 9:30am-3pm, Monday 22 June 2026
Where: Holiday Inn Wigston, 299 Leicester Road, Wigston, Leicester, LE18 1JW

Breaking Barriers to Trade is a dynamic one-day event in Leicester bringing together business leaders, entrepreneurs and innovators from across the East Midlands to explore regional growth, entrepreneurship and the future of business.

Guests will be welcomed with tea and coffee on arrival before the event opens with welcome remarks from Baroness Verma, followed by a keynote address from the Headline Sponsor focusing on trade, innovation and business growth.

Baroness Verma is an influential business leader, policymaker and advocate for diversity, inclusion and entrepreneurship. With extensive experience across government, business and international initiatives, she is recognised for championing opportunity, collaboration and innovation in communities and organisations worldwide.

The first panel, Regional Trade & Opportunities in Leicester, will explore the region’s growth potential, barriers to trade and the support available for businesses and entrepreneurs. Chaired by Baroness Verma, the discussion will feature representatives from the Chamber of Commerce, banking sector, local business support organisations and established business leaders.

A second panel, Intergenerational Working & The Future of Business, will examine evolving workplace dynamics, generational collaboration and innovative uses of AI, exploring how organisations can build adaptable and future-focused teams.

Following a lunch break, attendees will take part in an interactive workshop led by Christina Brooks, focused on building a strong personal brand, increasing visibility through platforms such as LinkedIn and turning personal presence into business growth.

The day will close with final remarks from the Headline Sponsor and an opportunity for attendees to continue networking and building connections.

RSVP  by 15 June to receive the official invite, it is first come first served and no walk up on the day.

Email: [email protected] cc in [email protected]

See Event Agenda for full programme details and timings.