Business Newsletter - Reigate & Banstead August 2026 Business e-Bulletin

Business Newsletter - Reigate & Banstead August 2026 Business e-Bulletin https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/ en-us 03 Aug 2026 08:46:03 BST 03 Aug 2026 08:46:03 BST https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/rss.xml Newsweaver economicprosperity@reigate-banstead.gov.uk (Reigate & Banstead Borough Council) support@newsweaver.ie (Newsweaver) 60 true Source in Surrey comes to Redhill https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1qu6tnwtife?lang=en&rss=true We’re excited to announce that the next Buyer-Supplier Exchange event from Source in Surrey is coming to Redhill on 3 September. Join us at the Bel4 Co-working space to meet buyers and procurement representatives from a range of businesses including the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and AtkinsRéalis. Take part in roundtable discussions and book speed networking sessions to gain direct access to supply chain opportunities and valuable industry insights. Book your free place [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1htwpbqx3xz/external?lang=en ] 29 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 805635c847cde68e51bb6a54ab3f4c0d ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250819-092203 3 September (10:30-14:30) We’re excited to announce that the next Buyer-Supplier Exchange event from Source in Surrey is coming to Redhill on 3 September. Join us at the Bel4 Co-working space to meet buyers and procurement representatives from a range of businesses including the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust and AtkinsRéalis.   Take part in roundtable discussions and book speed networking sessions to gain direct access to supply chain opportunities and valuable industry insights.   <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1htwpbqx3xz/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Book your free place</a> Promotional poster for the Source in Surrey Buyer-Supplier Exchange event. The image features business networking tables in a conference-style venue with attendees in discussion. Event details include 3 September, 10:30am-2:30pm, at Bel4 Office Complex, 60 Station Road, Redhill, RH1 1PL. The free event is designed to help Surrey buyers and suppliers explore procurement opportunities and connect with experts. Logos for Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust, AtkinsRéalis, Surrey County Council, Surrey https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/fc/6d5ad441d73c4b19a0b71c.jpg Networked Women launches locally https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1gkqj8fcy6c?lang=en&rss=true Reigate & Banstead Borough Council is delighted to be supporting a series of Surrey Networked Women events which will be run in partnership with the FSB and Tandridge District Council in the local area. Designed to connect and support women in business, join us for inspiring speakers, practical advice and great networking in a welcoming and collaborative community. 30 September (12:00-14:00) at Robert Denholm House, Bletchingley Road, Redhill RH1 4HW. Register your interest [ lauren.read@reigate-banstead.gov.uk ] 25 Jun 2026 12:00:00 BST 1bd92fe860a74246a832f42ae9a18227 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250819-092203 30 September (12:00-14:00) Reigate & Banstead Borough Council is delighted to be supporting a series of Surrey Networked Women events which will be run in partnership with the FSB and Tandridge District Council in the local area. Designed to connect and support women in business, join us for inspiring speakers, practical advice and great networking in a welcoming and collaborative community.   30 September (12:00-14:00) at Robert Denholm House, Bletchingley Road, Redhill RH1 4HW.   <a href="mailto:lauren.read@reigate-banstead.gov.uk" rel="noreferrer noopener">Register your interest</a> Two people networking at a business event in a bright indoor venue. One person in a white shirt is engaged in conversation with another person holding a notebook. Greenery and refreshments are visible in the background, illustrating professional networking, collaboration and relationship-building within a business community. https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/1d/63afe6897f4a87b5ad727e.jpg Celebrating local businesses https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1ky2mfzbo2t?lang=en&rss=true Congratulations to: Lesh (Epsom) - shortlisted in the Absolutely Mama Awards 2026 (Best Feeding/Nursing Product category) FraudOps (Redhill) - finalist in three categories at the Insurance Times Tech & Innovation Awards 2026 and to the winners of Rebecca Paul MP's small business competition: MLP Wealth (Banstead) - Best Overall Small Business The Chapel (Reigate) - Best Independent Cafe Murray Designs (Reigate) - Best Independent Shop The Garibaldi Pub (Redhill) - Best Community-Supporting Small Business 02 Sep 2025 12:00:00 BST d438ba96c8235c2112a0a5017b3acf6d ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250819-092203 Congratulations to: <ul style="list-style-type: circle;"> <li>Lesh (Epsom) - shortlisted in the Absolutely Mama Awards 2026 (Best Feeding/Nursing Product category)</li> <li>FraudOps (Redhill) - finalist in three categories at the Insurance Times Tech & Innovation Awards 2026</li> </ul> and to the winners of Rebecca Paul MP's small business competition: <ul style="list-style-type: circle;"> <li>MLP Wealth (Banstead) - Best Overall Small Business</li> <li>The Chapel (Reigate) - Best Independent Cafe</li> <li>Murray Designs (Reigate) - Best Independent Shop</li> <li>The Garibaldi Pub (Redhill) - Best Community-Supporting Small Business</li> </ul> Promotional graphic showing two copies of a black, textured box set titled ‘Johnny Douglas: The Collection,’ with gold lettering on the covers. The items are displayed against a dark background featuring the text ‘Johnny Douglas | The Collection’ at the top https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/19/9ee6e04256e61615f31b32.jpg Events round up https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1jw48elg91e?lang=en&rss=true AUGUST 11 - Try it Tuesday - free co-working day [ simon@redhill-micropreneurs.uk ] (Bel4, Redhill, 09:00-17:00) 12 - AI for everyday work: Practical use of AI in emails, docs and meetings [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1cd86gwba6a/external?lang=en ] (business.gov, online, 10:00-11:00) 12 - RH N [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/11nn8yat5hv/external?lang=en ]etworking [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/11nn8yat5hv/external?lang=en ] (Bel4, Redhill, 10:30-12:00) Special Event at Wildfit, Bletchingley 24 - Designing your AI Roadmap: A step-by-step guide for growing businesses [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/15lrw1cy7si/external?lang=en ] (business.gov, online, 11:00-12:00) SEPTEMBER 08 - Try it Tuesday - free co-working day [ simon@redhill-micropreneurs.uk ] (Bel4, Redhill, 09:00-17:00) 10 - The Marketing Lab: PR & positive media – build credibility and trust [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1gossszmn78/external?lang=en ] (Business Surrey, online, 11:30-12:00) 16 - RH Networking [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1018h5ry3ir/external?lang=en ] (Bel4, Redhill, 10:30-12:00) 17 - Start your net zero journey with confidence [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1nxf3pe5jur/external?lang=en ] (Business Surrey, online, 11:30-12:00) 24 - FSB Connect Reigate & Banstead [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/u94syjd95cb/external?lang=en ] [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/u94syjd95cb/external?lang=en ] (Town Hall, Reigate 08:00-10:00) 01 Mar 2026 12:00:00 GMT e8ed34ffab375c11604b78accb163844 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250819-092203 Your guide to free local business events AUGUST   11 - <a href="mailto:simon@redhill-micropreneurs.uk" rel="noreferrer noopener">Try it Tuesday - free co-working day</a> (Bel4, Redhill, 09:00-17:00) 12 - <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1cd86gwba6a/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">AI for everyday work: Practical use of AI in emails, docs and meetings</a> (business.gov, online, 10:00-11:00) 12 - <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/11nn8yat5hv/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RH N</a><a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/11nn8yat5hv/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">etworking</a> (Bel4, Redhill, 10:30-12:00) Special Event at Wildfit, Bletchingley 24 - <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/15lrw1cy7si/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Designing your AI Roadmap: A step-by-step guide for growing businesses</a> (business.gov, online, 11:00-12:00)   SEPTEMBER   08 - <a href="mailto:simon@redhill-micropreneurs.uk" rel="noreferrer noopener">Try it Tuesday - free co-working day</a> (Bel4, Redhill, 09:00-17:00) 10 - <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1gossszmn78/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">The Marketing Lab: PR & positive media – build credibility and trust</a> (Business Surrey, online, 11:30-12:00) 16 - <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1018h5ry3ir/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">RH Networking</a> (Bel4, Redhill, 10:30-12:00) 17 - <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1nxf3pe5jur/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Start your net zero journey with confidence</a> (Business Surrey, online, 11:30-12:00) 24 - <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/u94syjd95cb/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FSB Connect Reigate & Banstead</a> (Town Hall, Reigate 08:00-10:00) Redhill Arts Takeover returns! https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1ku9nfmagnk?lang=en&rss=true Don't miss out on the Redhill Arts Takeover which returns bigger, brighter and bolder for 2026. Showcasing creativity across multiple town centre venues, the event attracts residents and visitors, helping to boost footfall and strengthen connections between businesses, community organisations and customers while celebrating Redhill’s thriving cultural scene. For full listings and to book tickets [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1uo80rmhesd/external?lang=en ] 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 897aed3192d26ed79530bf4232c773e5 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250819-092203 5-12 September Don't miss out on the Redhill Arts Takeover which returns bigger, brighter and bolder for 2026. Showcasing creativity across multiple town centre venues, the event attracts residents and visitors, helping to boost footfall and strengthen connections between businesses, community organisations and customers while celebrating Redhill’s thriving cultural scene.   <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1uo80rmhesd/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">For full listings and to book tickets</a> Promotional poster for the RedHill Arts Takeover. The design features a black-and-white illustration of a person holding an artist’s palette against a bright orange and pink radial background. Text reads “RedHill Arts TakeOver”, “R&B Arts Takeover”, and “Saturday 5 to Saturday 12 September”. Reigate & Banstead Borough Council logo appears at the bottom. https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/ba/b6dd96482682afc10b44fc.jpg Keep up to date with Local Government Reorganisation https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/m6rog5kewx7?lang=en&rss=true Local government in Surrey is changing. From April 2027, the 12 existing Surrey councils will be replaced by two new unitary councils - East Surrey and West Surrey. The Future Surrey newsletter for partners [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/lhn8zc02c5b/external?lang=en ] has been developed to share updates on behalf of all 12 Surrey councils. 30 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 8f419a55c6962af7f8892fae6233b2b8 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250819-092203 Sign up for the Future Surrey newsletter for partners Local government in Surrey is changing. From April 2027, the 12 existing Surrey councils will be replaced by two new unitary councils - East Surrey and West Surrey.   The <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/lhn8zc02c5b/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Future Surrey newsletter for partners</a> has been developed to share updates on behalf of all 12 Surrey councils. Illustrated map of Surrey showing a proposed county-wide strategic authority made up of two council areas: West Surrey Council (Guildford, Waverley, Woking, Runnymede, Spelthorne and Surrey Heath) and East Surrey Council (Elmbridge, Epsom and Ewell, Reigate and Banstead, Mole Valley and Tandridge). The map includes icons representing communities, housing, cycling, recreation, trees and transport, with labels identifying each district and borough. An arrow points to the outline of the county labe https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/05/f33489f1943ca9b189a7ca.jpg Work begins on new Local Plan https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/t44lbch7066?lang=en&rss=true Work is set to start on a new Local Plan for Reigate & Banstead, setting out how the borough should grow and thrive to 2044. The plan will guide where new homes, businesses and environmental improvements should go, while protecting valued green spaces, heritage and local character. A ‘notice of intention to commence’ has been published - the first official step in the plan-making process - and a timetable showing when you can have your say to help shape the plan [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/zxr3ds7ggbd/external?lang=en ] 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 774bfe31077a15d9ad5a4d900aeac45b ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250819-092203 Help us shape Reigate & Banstead to 2044 Work is set to start on a new Local Plan for Reigate & Banstead, setting out how the borough should grow and thrive to 2044. The plan will guide where new homes, businesses and environmental improvements should go, while protecting valued green spaces, heritage and local character.   A ‘notice of intention to commence’ has been published - the first official step in the plan-making process - and a timetable showing when you can <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/zxr3ds7ggbd/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">have your say to help shape the plan</a> Responsibility for plan making will move to the new East Surrey Council on 1 April 2027. Government guidance is that Local Government Reorganisation should not delay Local Plan work. In line with this approach, Reigate & Banstead Borough Council will carry out the early stages of plan preparation   A robust plan is also the best way to maintain control over speculative development and helps to ensure that the everyday facilities and services communities rely on, such as schools, health services and transport links are put in place to support new development. Illustrated graphic titled “R&B Local Plan” featuring a location pin icon above a stylised community scene. The image shows rows of houses, a train, a road sign, landscaped green spaces and flower beds. People are walking in a park area, with two dogs visible, and a lion statue stands in the background. The artwork uses bright colours to represent homes, transport, public spaces and local infrastructure within the Reigate & Banstead area. https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/be/20385760df5d24b2c863ad.jpg Surrey Farming Innovation Accelerator https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1a8l2ikps18?lang=en&rss=true Farmers and growers across Surrey can access 100% funded grants of £10,000 to £35,000 through the Surrey Farming Innovation Accelerator. Designed to improve productivity, efficiency and resilience, the programme supports digital innovation projects and includes expert business support, training and peer-to-peer learning. Apply by 16 August [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1lry6tqq60r/external?lang=en ] 21 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 6ad70f6079ab0e22c4adc668605e966d ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 Grants for Growth Farmers and growers across Surrey can access 100% funded grants of £10,000 to £35,000 through the Surrey Farming Innovation Accelerator. Designed to improve productivity, efficiency and resilience, the programme supports digital innovation projects and includes expert business support, training and peer-to-peer learning. <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1lry6tqq60r/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apply by 16 August</a> Person inspecting and harvesting ripe strawberries in a commercial greenhouse. Rows of strawberry plants hang above waist height, with red and green fruit visible throughout the growing area. Green crates are stacked in the background, illustrating modern fruit production and agricultural operations. https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/30/79a08c3a585f25c887c44a.jpg MDHUB launches first Surrey Peer Group https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1gnle6gt1lz?lang=en&rss=true MDHUB is expanding into the local area with the launch of its first official Surrey peer group for growth businesses. Building on strong local business networks, including members of the PEER 25 growth programme, the group starts on 14 August and two places remain for Surrey-based business leaders. For more information, email the group's facilitator, Simon Bland. [ simon@mdhub.co.uk ] 31 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST df149f96f38c189da97b336e8733b665 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 MDHUB is expanding into the local area with the launch of its first official Surrey peer group for growth businesses. Building on strong local business networks, including members of the PEER 25 growth programme, the group starts on 14 August and two places remain for Surrey-based business leaders.  For more information, email the group's facilitator, <a href="mailto:simon@mdhub.co.uk" rel="noreferrer noopener">Simon Bland.</a> People seated and networking at a business event. In the foreground, a person wearing glasses sits on a chair facing to the side, while another attendee is seated nearby. The image features the promotional text: “NEW MEMBERS GROUP LAUNCHING IN SURREY” and “WITH SIMON BLAND”. The setting appears to be an informal professional gathering. https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/68/342c4d7f1acde2eb937373.jpg Powering Local Businesses https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1cuaflqt1wb?lang=en&rss=true Small businesses can apply for a share of £25,000 through the Powering Local Businesses programme. Five businesses will each receive a £5,000 sustainability grant, while five business owners will win a workplace electric vehicle charger with installation included. Support is available for energy efficiency improvements, equipment upgrades and renewable infrastructure investments. Closing date: 31 August [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/18u9mwnjahi/external?lang=en ] 25 Jun 2026 12:00:00 BST 3b7e0e92abaa0f12a87a4d2b7fad1eaa ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 Funding for a Greener Future Small businesses can apply for a share of £25,000 through the Powering Local Businesses programme. Five businesses will each receive a £5,000 sustainability grant, while five business owners will win a workplace electric vehicle charger with installation included. Support is available for energy efficiency improvements, equipment upgrades and renewable infrastructure investments.   <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/18u9mwnjahi/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Closing date: 31 August</a>     Close-up of a technician testing an electric vehicle charging unit mounted on a wall. The technician is using a digital multimeter to check electrical connections inside an open distribution box, while a coiled charging cable hangs beside the charger. The image illustrates installation and maintenance of EV charging infrastructure. https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/19/32649e84aa7415d64d9f86.jpg Help to Grow Management Programme https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/15gpg93fmux?lang=en&rss=true Calling all SME leaders! Access the government-backed Help to Grow: Management programme, delivered by Surrey Business School in Guildford. Over 12 weeks, participants gain practical leadership skills, one-to-one mentoring, peer networking and a bespoke growth plan. The programme is 90% government funded. Starts 7 October. For more details [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/az4f52dvrtk/external?lang=en ] 29 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 93336836a55a9b8b1421fe38da21a56b ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 Turbo charge your business Calling all SME leaders! Access the government-backed Help to Grow: Management programme, delivered by Surrey Business School in Guildford. Over 12 weeks, participants gain practical leadership skills, one-to-one mentoring, peer networking and a bespoke growth plan. The programme is 90% government funded.   Starts 7 October. <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/az4f52dvrtk/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">For more details</a> Promotional graphic for the Help to Grow: Management Course. White and green text on a dark blue background reads "Help to Grow Management Course" and "Grow with expert business support at your side." The Surrey Business School, University of Surrey logo appears on the right alongside circular graphic elements. https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/v3files/shard1/37225/f9/79d365a039bbc9419ca136.jpg Funding for businesses who employ young people https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/60rvk51ftvu?lang=en&rss=true Businesses can access a £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant for every eligible 18 to 24-year-old they recruit who has been claiming Universal Credit and seeking work for six months or more. The scheme helps reduce recruitment costs, provides access to motivated jobseekers and supports workforce growth. Eligible roles must be at least 25 hours per week and last a minimum of four months. Interested in growing your team? Download the Youth Jobs Grant Toolkit [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/nimqcgsa6j0/external?lang=en ] to find out more. 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST d63ace645d103bbb4344e679b4bbd0e5 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 Businesses can access a £3,000 Youth Jobs Grant for every eligible 18 to 24-year-old they recruit who has been claiming Universal Credit and seeking work for six months or more. The scheme helps reduce recruitment costs, provides access to motivated jobseekers and supports workforce growth. Eligible roles must be at least 25 hours per week and last a minimum of four months. Interested in growing your team? Download the <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/nimqcgsa6j0/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Youth Jobs Grant Toolkit </a>to find out more. Making Tax Digital - are you prepared? https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/173x0lycdzi?lang=en&rss=true The first Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax quarterly update is due on 7 August 2026 and will apply if you work for yourself as a sole trader or earn money from property AND your turnover is above £50k. Find out more [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/191egb62nv9/external?lang=en ] 28 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMT 8abfab033c86eec5dc1a56cafe4953c3 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 The first Making Tax Digital (MTD) for Income Tax quarterly update is due on 7 August 2026 and will apply if you work for yourself as a sole trader or earn money from property AND your turnover is above £50k. <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/191egb62nv9/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find out more</a> Young Entrepreneurs invited to apply for prestigious King's Award https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/9mhbink1knv?lang=en&rss=true Applications are now open for the new Young Founder Award, part of The King's Awards for Enterprise. Free to enter, the award celebrates exceptional entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30 leading growing UK businesses. Eligible founders can gain national recognition, boost credibility, attract investment and join a prestigious network. Apply by 8 September 2026 [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/6f3a5eztt3f/external?lang=en ]. 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 946d0baffcfa80fe5e44ae4d9df32dcf ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 Applications are now open for the new Young Founder Award, part of The King's Awards for Enterprise. Free to enter, the award celebrates exceptional entrepreneurs aged 18 to 30 leading growing UK businesses. Eligible founders can gain national recognition, boost credibility, attract investment and join a prestigious network.   <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/6f3a5eztt3f/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Apply by 8 September 2026</a>. New AI accelerator for SMEs in Surrey https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/2ca1invphf5?lang=en&rss=true Creative startups and SMEs in Surrey can now apply for CoSTAR Emerge-AI, a new accelerator supporting businesses developing AI solutions. Participants can access expert workshops, mentoring, industry connections and up to £5,000 funding to help you move AI-powered products and services from prototype to market validation. Applications close on 17 August 2026 [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1qwqnl15ndu/external?lang=en ], with the programme running from October to December. 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 1ec3b04ab67e08be188480392fc6a595 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 Creative startups and SMEs in Surrey can now apply for CoSTAR Emerge-AI, a new accelerator supporting businesses developing AI solutions. Participants can access expert workshops, mentoring, industry connections and up to £5,000 funding to help you move AI-powered products and services from prototype to market validation.   <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1qwqnl15ndu/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Applications close on 17 August 2026</a>, with the programme running from October to December. Surrey launches new employer-led Skills Strategy https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/14es3hgyxym?lang=en&rss=true Surrey Chambers of Commerce has launched the Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1eaybdpsm5c/external?lang=en ] (LSIP) 2026-2029, setting out key skills priorities for the county. Developed with employers and partners, the plan aims to tackle workforce challenges, strengthen skills provision and support sustainable economic growth across Surrey. 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 0cab06c6feafaaa4d6196c5b04f3f1eb ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 Surrey Chambers of Commerce has launched the <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1eaybdpsm5c/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Surrey Local Skills Improvement Plan</a> (LSIP) 2026-2029, setting out key skills priorities for the county. Developed with employers and partners, the plan aims to tackle workforce challenges, strengthen skills provision and support sustainable economic growth across Surrey. Surrey Chambers of Commerce has launched the new Surrey LSIP 2026-2029 in partnership with Surrey County Council. The employer-led strategy identifies six priority areas critical to Surrey's future workforce needs: manufacturing and engineering, construction and the green economy, health and social care, digital technologies, employability skills, and employer engagement.   The plan responds to key challenges including skills shortages, recruitment difficulties, workforce retention and the growing impact of technology. Delivery initiatives over the next three years will include programmes to encourage more women into engineering, strengthen construction skills pipelines, support health and social care leadership, improve digital capability and enhance employability skills.   Businesses are encouraged to get involved by sharing insights and helping shape future skills provision. S100 Club September Pitch Event https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/q1u30kpy5zm?lang=en&rss=true UK-registered startups seeking £250,000 to £1.5 million investment can apply to pitch at the S100 Club’s September event (16 September at the University of Surrey). The programme supports innovative, high-growth businesses across sectors including AI, deep tech, life sciences and advanced engineering, connecting selected founders with experienced angel investors and funding opportunities. 23 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 5939563acfdf33f318aa43854997058a ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 UK-registered startups seeking £250,000 to £1.5 million investment can apply to pitch at the S100 Club’s September event (16 September at the University of Surrey). The programme supports innovative, high-growth businesses across sectors including AI, deep tech, life sciences and advanced engineering, connecting selected founders with experienced angel investors and funding opportunities. Applications undergo a three-stage selection process comprising a written application, pre-selection meeting and panel assessment. Only the strongest opportunities are invited to pitch. Food, beverage and clothing businesses are generally excluded unless technology is central to their model.   Applications opened on 22 July 2026.<a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/18x2j78h6ra/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> Find out more</a>. Person standing at a clear lectern delivering a presentation in a modern event space. An audience is seated facing the speaker, with large windows providing natural light. The image represents a business pitch, networking event, startup presentation, or investor showcase. The Great British Pitch - USA https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1f2yy7xq5c8?lang=en&rss=true UK food, drink, consumer goods and retail businesses are invited to showcase their products to international buyers at The Great British Pitch - USA in central London on 8 September. Gain expert export support, pitch via livestream to US buyers, and network with ambitious businesses. Find out more and register your interest. [ https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1ngkgz378qr/external?lang=en ] 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 9c367d443726aa19fa37d68a2bc32bff ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 UK food, drink, consumer goods and retail businesses are invited to showcase their products to international buyers at The Great British Pitch - USA in central London on 8 September. Gain expert export support, pitch via livestream to US buyers, and network with ambitious businesses.   <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/1ngkgz378qr/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Find out more and register your interest.</a> Tell us your views on proposed planning controls for small HMOs https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/wy8w4top55e?lang=en&rss=true We are seeking views from residents, landlords and property owners on proposed planning controls for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The Article 4 direction would remove permitted development rights so that properties can no longer be converted into small HMOs (shared homes or bedsits) for three to six residents without a full planning application. 24 Jul 2026 12:00:00 BST 0ec5f5ffd14ba9e854c48c9be6559186 ARTICLE_1_COLUMN-clone-31731032-20250820-171852 We are seeking views from residents, landlords and property owners on proposed planning controls for small Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The Article 4 direction would remove permitted development rights so that properties can no longer be converted into small HMOs (shared homes or bedsits) for three to six residents without a full planning application. HMOs provide an important source of lower-cost housing, so these proposals are not about preventing them but would ensure that the Council can properly consider their location, design, accommodation standards and potential impact on neighbours and communities before any conversion takes place. The consultation runs from 30 July to 24 September 2026.   <a href="https://rbbc.newsweaver.co.uk/Newsletter/5r03chdn3co/external?lang=en" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Take part in the consultation</a>