From Survive to Thrive: Building Stronger Businesses for the Future- conference

In Person Event | Surrey University

£12 FSB Members £15 non members  – including refreshments and light lunch

We are excited to announce, this new Surrey event, designed to support small businesses as they navigate today’s challenging economic climate and move confidently from survival mode into sustainable growth.

Throughout the day, delegates will hear from expert speakers and business leaders on key topics including winning customers, managing rising costs, preparing for regulatory change, accessing finance, and tackling sector-specific challenges. The event will also feature interactive breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and an exhibition of support services and funding programmes. Whether you’re looking for practical solutions or fresh inspiration, Survive to Thrive Surrey will equip you with the tools, insights and connections to help your business move forward. 

Survive to Thrive Surrey – What’s in Store?

Tuesday 15 September 2026 | 10am–3pm | University of Surrey Business School

A practical day packed with ideas, expert advice, honest conversations and opportunities to connect with other Surrey businesses.

9.30am – Arrive, Refresh & Connect

Grab a coffee, meet other businesses and explore our Business Marketplace before we get started.

10.00am – From Surviving to Thriving

Building Resilient Businesses

We’ll set the scene for the day, looking at the challenges facing small businesses, what resilience really means and the support available across Surrey.

11.00am – Winning More Customers

Sales, Marketing & Networking

Discover practical ways to raise your profile, find new customers and make the most of marketing, social media, networking and technology – without needing a huge budget.

11.45am – Breakout Discussions

Your Business. Your Challenges. Your Questions.

Join a smaller, interactive discussion and get practical advice, ideas and different perspectives from people who understand the realities of running a small business.

12.15pm – Lunch, Networking & Business Marketplace

Refuel, make new connections and meet the organisations and experts who can help your business move forward. And yes, there will be Network Bingo!

1.00pm – Building Financial Confidence

Take Control of Your Numbers

From cash flow and getting paid to funding, compliance and planning ahead, we’ll tackle the financial issues that can make or break a small business.

2.00pm – The Future of Business Growth

Winning Business Through Sustainability

Discover how sustainability can become a commercial advantage – helping you reduce costs, win new customers and prepare your business for the future.

2.30pm – Speed Networking & Business Marketplace

Finish the day with connections that count.

A fast-paced opportunity to meet new people, exchange ideas and make those all-important connections.

3.30pm – Time to Head Home

Hopefully with new ideas, useful contacts and a few things you can’t wait to put into practice.

Come along, get involved and help us create a stronger, more connected Surrey business community.

Book your place today – spaces are limited.