University of Brighton, Grand Parade
Brighton, England BN2 0JY

Live Question Time for City’s Influencers and Decision Makers

Good news for local business people as Brighton and Hove Chamber of Commerce hosts its second annual State of the Nation event on 12th June at the Sallis Benney Theatre, Brighton University.

State of the Nation has been developed to promote understanding as to how decisions, regulations and investment actually translate into future development for ongoing business growth and success in the city.

This open style debate and networking event enables the audience to submit live questions to the panel and offers an honest and direct forum between the local business community and the influential individuals and organisations that help shape the regional socio-economic and political landscape.

Brighton and Hove has a strong entrepreneurial culture, 20.4% of working residents are self-employed, about 5% more than in the south east and 7% more than Great Britain. In addition, the percentage of self-employed in the city increased by 7% in the years 2003-2006 whereas regionally and nationally there has been less than 1% increase over the same time period. Just under 85% of all local business units employ between one and ten people.

As one of the most prosperous areas in the South East, Brighton and Hove has experienced and maintained significant economic growth and success since the 1990’s. But where are we now and what are the plans for the future of the city? The high proportion of independent enterprises and small businesses means the Chamber of Commerce performs a vital role in facilitating interaction with local decision making organisations and groups on behalf of its members.

State of the Nation will be hosted by Roger French OBE, Managing Director of the Brighton & Hove Bus and Coach Company and Julie Stanford, President of the Brighton and Hove Chamber of Commerce.

Confirmed Panellists are:
•Adam Bain, Working Links
•Tony Mernagh, chief executive, Brighton & Hove Business Forum
•Dr. Andrew Toal, head of business services, University of Brighton
•Julie Stanford, president, Brighton & Hove Chamber of Commerce
•Chief Inspector Laurence Taylor, Neighbourhood Policing Teams, Brighton & Hove Division, Sussex Police

We hope also to be joined by Councillor Mary Mears, leader of the Brighton & Hove Conservative Party and deputy leader of the Council

Why should you attend?
2008 began with rumblings of an uncertain economic climate and there has been much made of how this situation has the capacity to affect us in our every day lives. Whether you run your own business in the city, operate as a freelancer or sole trader, are a long standing employee, or even just beginning your career in Brighton, State of the Nation offers a great opportunity to find out what is really going on behind the scenes.

Due to our generous sponsors, Brighton Business Forum and the University of Brighton, this event is FREE to attend and offers opportunities to network before and after the debate with some complimentary drinks provided.

Membership to the Chamber is great value and starts at just £99.00 + VAT for a year.

To book your place please call 01273 719097 or visit our website www.brightoninbusiness.org.uk

Official Website: http://www.businessinbrighton.org.uk/

Added by Brighton and Hove Chamber of Com on May 14, 2008

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