FAQ Festival of Business – Proud Past | Bold Future

Frequently Asked Questions

Has the Festival of Business been cancelled?

No. The Festival of Business has not been cancelled. It is going ahead on the same date, Wednesday 11 November 2026, at Braxted Park Estate.

Why has the venue changed?

Following recent venue uncertainty outside the Chamber’s control, we have moved quickly to protect the certainty, quality and delivery of the Festival.

Is the date the same?

Yes. The Festival remains on Wednesday 11th November 2026 from 10.00am to 3pm. Gates open for visitors at 9.45am.

 

I am an exhibitor. Is my booking still valid?

Yes. Existing exhibitor bookings remain valid and if you have confirmed you are happy to transfer, your booking will be updated automatically. No rebooking is required.

Will exhibitor prices change?

No. All exhibitor packages will remain the same cost.

Will I keep the same stand location?

If we have previously agreed a stand location with you, the Events Team will be in touch to discuss placement. We are preparing a revised floorplan for Braxted Park and will share stand information in due course.

I am registered as a visitor. Is my registration still valid?

Yes. Visitor registrations remain valid and no further action is required.

Will there be parking?

Yes. Braxted Park provides ample parking facilities to accommodate large scale events. Arrival and parking information is available on your attendee confirmation email.

Are exhibition stands still available?

Yes. Businesses interested in exhibiting should book their stands quickly to avoid disappointment. Stands can be secured via our Exhibitor Booking Page.

Will all exhibitors be located together?

Yes. We have ensured that the exhibition will be located in one central location.

 

What is the purpose of the Festival?

The Festival is designed to showcase Essex businesses, help members promote what they do, create new relationships, connect into supply chains, and bring the county’s business community together in one place.

Can I have a larger stand?

Yes. Contact the Events Team to discuss the options of a larger stand or outside display space.

Is there any discounts available?

Members get a special rate. If you are looking to purchase 3 or more stands, discounts are available – Contact the Events Team to find out more. We do not offer a Charity rate.

Are there any sponsorship opportunities available?

Sponsorship opportunities are extremely limited, please contact the Events Team to discuss to discuss options.

Are there any speaking opportunities available?

No. Our speaker programme have been carefully curated to incorporate our event theme and to ensure the timings of the day run smoothly. If you would like to express your interest in speaking, please contact the Events Team, who will be in touch should an opportunity become available.

Who should I contact with any further questions?

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Events Team at events@essexchambers.co.uk.

What is the Festival of Business?

The Festival of Business is our flagship event, bringing together businesses of all sizes, sectors, and stages to connect, collaborate, and be inspired.

Designed as a high-energy celebration of enterprise, the Festival combines thought-provoking keynote speakers, interactive workshops, sector-focused showcases, and valuable networking opportunities under one roof. It is a space where ideas are shared, partnerships are formed, and innovation is brought to life.

More than a traditional conference, the Festival of Business creates an accessible and inclusive platform for local SMEs, scale-ups, corporates, and stakeholders to engage with one another, discover new opportunities, and gain practical insight to support growth and resilience.

With a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and the future of business, the Festival of Business acts as a catalyst for economic growth, celebrating success while equipping attendees with the knowledge, connections, and confidence to thrive in an evolving business landscape.

Previous Festivals

2025

Building a Greater Essex
View Here

2024

Essex Has Talent
View Here

2023

A Changing World
View Here

2022

Bringing the Essex Business Community Together
View Here

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