University co-hosts networking event to support small regional businesses

The University of Wolverhampton, in collaboration with Birmingham City University and Coventry University, hosted a networking event aimed at supporting small medium Enterprises (SMEs) to thrive.  

Held at STEAMhouse, Birmingham on 5 March, the Steering Small Businesses: Leadership in the West Midlands event, part of the West Midlands Business Festival, brought together industry experts, local academics and successful entrepreneurs to explore the unique leadership hurdles faced by small businesses in the Midlands. 

The event was designed for small and medium-sized business owners, directors and senior managers across the West Midlands and beyond, seeking practical strategies to strengthen leadership and drive sustainable growth.  

Attendees were able to gain hands-on strategies to tackle current and future leadership challenges, with direct input from industry experts and academic practitioners, including Professor Paul Noon, Deputy Vice-Chancellor from Coventry University, Corine Crane, Chief Executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber and Vikki Potts, Director of the Wolverhampton Business School.  

“West Midlands Combined Universities was proud to host this event, and seeing our universities, businesses and other partners sharing knowledge, experience and opportunities was brilliant - for me the key takeaways were, be bold, be smart and don't be afraid of collaboration” Wayne Langford, Director of West Midlands Combined Universities 

As an academic practitioner panel member, Vikki emphasised the extensive support available for SME leaders. She highlighted tailored government-backed programmes, specialist short-courses, and the enterprise and commercial support provided by regional universities, along with hands-on training designed specifically for SMEs. 

Embracing AI and digital transformation, fostering innovation and building resilient organisations and sustainable business practices were just some of the topics covered.  

The event provided the University of Wolverhampton along with both joint co-host universities opportunities to strengthen ties with the local business community and get an understanding of the pressing needs for SMEs.  

All three universities were also able to demonstrate their commitment to driving regional economic growth by sharing expertise, fostering connections and supporting businesses in practical and meaningful ways.  

Sadaf Alvi Liaqat, Executive Education Lead at the University, said: “Seeing the energy, engagement, and expertise in the room last night, reinforced the importance of bridging the gap between universities and industry. The future is co-designing solutions with businesses and collaborating with other providers and business networks, to deliver real impact in our region.” 

Anyone interested in studying for courses at the Faculty of Arts, Business and Social Sciences at the University of Wolverhampton should register for one of our forthcoming Open Days.