The ‘Beyond Borders: Accelerating Business Growth on a Global Scale’ event was hosted at the University’s Bedford campus, offering tips to aspiring business leaders on topics including how to overcome challenges such as required documentation, how to grow their sales opportunities, and more information about potential funding available for businesses to grow beyond our borders.

The event was hosted by the University’s Research & Innovation Service (RIS), who provide support to businesses through a range of initiatives including expert consultancy, work placements and targeted training opportunities. Click here to find out more.

Throughout the day, keynote speakers from regional and national organisations included:

• Justin Richardson, CEO of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce
• Paul Bowman, Vertical Head of International, Specialist Client Solutions at Barclays
• Rob Lewtas, Strategic Partner Manager at Department for Business and Trade
• Jo Archer, Export Finance Manager for Cambridgeshire, Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire at UK Export Finance
• Reuben Isbitsky, Senior Innovation & Growth Specialist at Innovate UK Edge
• Dr Markus Haag, Senior Lecturer in Management with the University of Bedfordshire’s Business School.

Alongside hearing from these speakers, attendees had the opportunity to learn from a successful export business, Acuigen, who shared the triumphs and challenges faced when expanding its services into several cities within the United States.

This event also offered an opportunity to support Bedfordshire attendees through the University’s new project funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) - working alongside the Central Bedfordshire Council and Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce to provide a boost to local businesses that operate within the Central Bedfordshire area.

Nathan March, Senior Business Partnerships Manager within RIS, said: “It was great to welcome regional businesses to our international trading event. As a University, our dedication to fostering innovation and economic prosperity within our region's business community remains unwavering. Facilitating international trade for businesses is of paramount importance, and we are committed to continuing our support through similar events and tailored initiatives in the future.”

Justin Richardson, CEO of Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce added: “It was great to be involved in the event. Collaboration between Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, University of Bedfordshire, and other partners within the ecosystem, especially through initiatives like the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), is pivotal for fostering innovation and economic growth. 

Exporting presents a wealth of opportunities for our local businesses and through the UKSPF support programme, we aim to equip them with the knowledge and tools needed to thrive in the global marketplace.”