Ipswich Thrive: Business Week to showcase town’s vibrant entrepreneurial spirit

A dark blue background with a networking image. Text in front reads Ipswich Thrive Business Week 10th - 18th March 2025

Ipswich is set to host its first business week – a celebration of collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship in the town.

The Ipswich Thrive: Business Week, taking place between March 10 and 18 is being organised by Ipswich Borough Council to serve as a vibrant platform to showcase the town’s dynamic local business community and help foster collaboration opportunities.

More than a dozen business events are scheduled to be held throughout the week, where organisers are encouraging businesses to take advantage and join in wherever possible.

Councillor Neil MacDonald, Ipswich Borough Council Leader, says: “We’re proud to be launching our first Ipswich Thrive: Business Week. 

“This week is an unmissable opportunity for local businesses to come together, celebrate success, and shape the future of our vibrant community. 

“Whether you’re a small start-up, an established company, or taking the first steps in developing your own business, we invite everyone to get involved and take advantage of the opportunities this week has to offer.”

The week-long business festival will see a host of events and activities take place across the town, including panel discussions and keynote speeches from industry leaders, alongside workshops and training sessions tailored for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

It will also include a range of networking events to promote collaboration and partnerships and business expos showcasing the very best in local businesses and start-ups.

Tim Robinson, Chief Operations Officer at Tech East, says: “It’s really positive to bring the business community together to celebrate and showcase what's going on in and around Ipswich and thinking about what the future may hold.  It’s a great opportunity to network, to make new partners and contacts.”

Craig Parry, business development manager at IJYI, adds: “The collaboration side of things is really important, sharing knowledge and experience, whether it’s a well-established business looking to freshen up or a new start-up looking for a different perspective.”

Doug Rintoul, Chief Executive of the New Wolsey Theatre, says: “This event will be a brilliant boost of energy into economic growth.”

Nicki Bramford, project manager for the Ipswich Thrive: Business Week, says: “This week is about embracing digital innovation, forging strategic cross-sector partnerships, changing the narrative and rethinking community engagement in the town.”

Find out more information on the Ipswich Thrive: Business Week