Happy new year, from Think Sandwell! We hope you had a joyful festive period and are looking forward to the new year with energy and enthusiasm. Our borough certainly has a lot to look forward to in 2023.

Exciting events

Wednesday 1 March is Venturefest, a one-day event which brings together regional businesses, universities, science parks and support organisations to collaborate on innovative ideas. It also includes the Minerva Pitch Up competition, a chance for ambitious businesses to win investment and raise their profiles.

Friday 14 July is Black Country Day, an annual celebration of everything that is great about our region. Get thinking now about how your business can mark the day and showcase what you do best.

Awards and accolades

The Queen’s Awards for Enterprise will open for entries in May and The Black Country Chamber Business Awards will take place in October, the culmination of the Black Country Business Festival. Other awards that Sandwell businesses competed for in 2022 include the Planning Awards, the Constructing Excellence Awards and the Green Flag Awards. To make sure you don’t miss an opportunity to have your business recognised, sign up to Sandwell business updates by email.

Continuing regeneration

There are dozens of ongoing redevelopment projects taking place across the region, making Sandwell an ever better place to live and work. You can follow the latest updates on our regeneration website, which currently features ongoing improvements around Sandwell Aquatic Centre, upgrades to the canal network and initiatives in West Bromwich, Smethwick, Rowley Regis, Oldbury and Wednesbury.

New year makeover

We’re also working on an all-new Think Sandwell, making it even easier to get the information and support you need to boost your business. Whether it’s new premises, new staff, new markets or new collaborations, we’re here to help you make the most of what Sandwell has to offer, not just in the new year, but throughout 2023 and beyond.