What we do

We are the voice of business for the Bristol. Working alongside local councils and key stakeholders, the Initiative provides an effective link between the private, public and third sectors; ensuring that business can channel its voice and help shape and influence policies.

Working in partnership with members, over the next year we will continue focusing on our mission to bring leaders together to create a prosperous city region. The overarching themes of our work in the coming year are:

  • Promoting clean inclusive growth
  • Transforming transport and mobility
  • Tackling deprivation
  • Improving education and skills

We work with business and community leaders with a passion for creating meaningful, long lasting change for our city. 

News & updates from the Initiative

Big Carl’s spectacular dome lift caps the year at Hinkley Point C

Big Carl’s latest lift highlights the progress being made at Hinkley Point C, where 10,000 workers and 3,500 British companies are building a power station which is essential in helping Britian...
Louise Holland
Louise Holland
Business West
Posted on: 20.12.23
Read more

Metro Mayor Dan Norris tells local business leaders what to expect from a Labour government

Last Wednesday, it was our quarterly Bristol Initiative meeting, where 100 business leaders gathered to listen to a range of speakers, including Metro Mayor, Dan Norris, discuss the challenges and...
Amy Drummond
Amy Drummond
Business West
Posted on: 14.12.23
Read more

"Community and green growth”: Dr Justin Morris announces priorities as New President of The Bristol Chamber & Initiative

Dr Justin Morris, Chief Executive of Bristol Zoological Society, has said “community and green growth” will be his focus as President of Business West’s Bristol Chamber & Initiative. The Bristol...
Amy Drummond
Amy Drummond
Business West
Posted on: 12.12.23
Read more

Passing the Torch: A Conversation with Jaya Chakrabarti, Former President of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce

At our recent Bristol Initiative Meeting we bid a fond farewell to our outgoing President of the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Jaya Chakrabarti DSc h.c. MBE . We caught up with Jaya to talk about her...
Sam Harrison
Sam Harrison
Business West
Posted on: 04.12.23
Read more

One City Gathering; How do we build a more inclusive and sustainable Bristol?

Last Friday, more than 300 people gathered to discuss Bristol’s One City Plan.
Amy Drummond
Amy Drummond
Business West
Posted on: 29.11.23
Read more

Business West gives 'two cheers' to the Autumn Budget

Matt Griffith, Director of Policy at Business West, reflects on the unexpected and welcome surprises that were announced in the Autumn Budget.
Matt Griffith
Matt Griffith
Business West
Posted on: 22.11.23
Read more

Pages