Guildford Business Forum event inspires and celebrates local commerce

The conference, Seeds to Success; Inspiring Business in Guildford, provided the perfect back drop for professionals in the area to take stock of their current position, and listen to inspiring presentations on where future developments could take them.

The Very Reverend Victor Stock, Dean of Guildford Cathedral, spoke to businesses of the need to accept and embrace change. His own experiences of integrating the old and the new demonstrated the Cathedral's modern approach to business and funding, especially in respect of their 50 year anniversary plans.

Delegates then received an update on the London 2012 Games and the opportunities it creates for business. Helen Bridgman of Surrey 2012 congratulated the work of Surrey based companies in securing the highest proportion of contracts within the South East, amounting to a combined value of over £740m. With a number of key contracts still to be won, she urged local businesses to visit www.competefor.com to ensure that more services and products for the event come from the local area.

Geoff French, Chair of the new Local Enterprise Partnership, Enterprise M3, also praised Guildford businesses for their enthusiasm and active involvement during its set up. He reiterated the importance of the borough's businesses and the Council within the partnership, with the first LEP board meeting taking place in Guildford. Enterprise M3 promises to support and concentrate on economic growth and enterprise in the area, raising the economic profile of the area both locally and nationally.

Professor Sir Martin Sweeting, OBE, recently recognised in Guildford's Roll of Honour ceremony then gave a thought provoking and stimulating presentation. His rise to acclaim from University of Surrey student to world respected space scientist demonstrated how a simple vision can extend the boundaries of business; in his case to the realms of outer space. Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, of which Sir Martin is Executive Chairman, began its life in the research facilities of the University of Surrey. Some 30 years later the company employs over 400 people and has launched over 34 satellites worldwide. The company has become a pioneer in the production of small satellites, leading the world in their field and putting Guildford firmly on the map.

Keith Churchouse, Chairman of the Guildford Business Forum closed the event, commenting: "It was great to see so many businesses attend this year's conference, and to hear the inspirational messages from each of our presenters.Guildford and Surrey businesses have shown significant energy, dynamism and resilience and are well placed to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. We have weathered the economic storm well, sowing the seeds of growth for the future prosperity of the borough. As we move into a new era, we are fortunate to have a number of significant opportunities ahead of us. By working together, the Guildford Business Forum, along with partners Guildford Borough Council and Surrey Chambers of Commerce, can all ensure a prosperous future and the growth of the region's business community."

(image - speakers at the conference - left to right - Keith Churchouse - Chairman Guildford Business Forum, Very Reverend Victor Stock - Dean of Guildford Cathedral, Geoff French - Chair of Enterprise M3, Professor Sir Martin Sweeting OBE - Executive Chairman Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd, Helen Bridgman - Surrey 2012 and Natalie Wigman - Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.)