Our inaugural forum, held on Thursday 14th Nov 2024, had two primary goals:
#1.
In the morning, we discussed the challenges of transforming the Midlands from a traditional manufacturing base into a hub known for knowledge, innovation and AI, supported by an active investment community and one that is attractive to the best talent from within and outside the region.
#2.
In the afternoon, we hosted an exclusive pitch event featuring nine of the region’s most promising companies - a rare chance to invest in ventures not typically available to the wider investment community.
Click an image below to load the gallery from our 2024 event in Birmingham.
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With their supporting programmes, this event aims to spotlight the Midlands as a hub of innovation and investment.
This invite-only event offers you the chance to hear pitches from a selection of the region’s most high potential scale-ups.
You'll also get the opportunity to network with fellow investors from across the Midlands and the rest of the UK and take part in interactive discussions that will help shape future plans and activities.
If you also know someone else who might benefit from attending, let us know by contacting Charlie.
Our goal is to connect you with the funding and expertise you need to scale your business. Meet experienced investors with proven track records, network with successful entrepreneurs who have scaled and exited businesses, and gain valuable insights from companies with expertise in scaling. You'll also get the chance to meet other advisors and potential partners to help propel your business forwards.
During the event, you’ll have the chance to pitch your business to a room full of potential investors!
Want to stay updated about future events? Register interest using the link below.
This is a unique opportunity to elevate your brand by engaging directly with attendees. Limited speaking and sponsorship opportunities are available to align with your ambitions and budget.
The event is organised and supported by a distinguished group of individuals who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the table.
David, the former Head of the FA, is a distinguished British broadcaster and proud Midlander. As a supporter and partner of the event, he brings senior-level expertise gained from his work spanning North America, Africa, and the Middle East, leveraging his influence for positive impact.
Mike, born and raised in Birmingham, is a seasoned professional in the financial sector. As a member of the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Council and a trustee at Millennium Point, he now dedicates his expertise to consulting and business development for local enterprises.
Andy is a seasoned entrepreneur, CEO, and investor with extensive experience in transforming insurance businesses through technology. In 2012, he co-founded Concirrus, using his success in fast-growth business strategies. He also holds several non-executive directorships and Chairman roles, and often advises the VC and PE community.
Geoff served as both Chief Financial Officer for Jaguar Land Rover North America and as Managing Director of Jaguar UK. He is currently the Chairman of G&P Quality Management Group, Regional Board Member of MAKE UK and a Member of the Transatlantic Board of Chamber of Commerce. Geoff is also Chairman of Cure Leukemia.
John is an entrepreneur, coach and mentor, currently serving as Entrepreneur in Residence at the University of Birmingham Enterprise, Birmingham Energy Institute, and Bruntwood SciTech. Additionally, he is a business coach at Aston University and a board member and investor in various scale-up ventures.
Craig is the founder of Turnkey - a company focused on helping startups become successful scaleups. He provides startups with guidance from an experienced board in exchange for equity. His expertise includes scaling startups, driving business growth, and developing unique selling propositions.
Richard Little is an experienced entrepreneur and investor in software companies, especially in fintech. Associated with Cambridge Angels, he joins our team of angels with extensive expertise in investment and scale-up growth.
Nigel has been a major player in the agricultural and horticultural sector for over 40 years primarily in the seed trade. His main interest is land use and how seed can be used - in its many forms – as a tool to solve a myriad of problems and improve the environment.
About Charlie
Charlie is a strategic advisor, investor and leadership coach based in the Midlands who excels at building individual and team capacity. He helps leaders unlock their potential and make a meaningful impact.
With nearly 25 years of experience in business, strategy, and innovation, he is passionate about supporting and investing in environmentally conscious scale-ups.
As the founder of Mandarin, Charlie heads a global team of experts who run regular leadership development programmes that cover essential and advanced topics, designed to help modern leaders maximise their potential and enhance their businesses.
Sponsorship opportunities available
We're always looking for professional partners and sponsors. Get in touch to find out more.
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