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

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

Still dealing with the fallout from Covid

The direct impacts of the pandemic are now thankfully largely behind us, but talking recently to members, it’s clear the long-term consequences are still being felt and there’s no saying when they...
Ian Bell
Ian Bell
Business West
Posted on: 09.11.23
Read more

Has Bristol peaked? Reflections on city's growing pains
Member role

On first reading the ‘have we reached peak Bristol?’ headline for this discussion, images of social media posts about defining (but instantly forgettable) moments came to mind. Think of angry fans...
Ben Lowndes
Ben Lowndes
Posted on: 23.10.23
Read more

Member spotlight: Ben Lowndes, Director at Distinctive Communications

Every so often we like to shine the spotlight on our members, and in this case one of the members of the Bristol Initiative. We sat down with Ben Lowndes , Director at Distinctive Communications and...
Sam Harrison
Sam Harrison
Business West
Posted on: 12.10.23
Read more

Spotlight on: Stephen Barrett, Managing Director of Solarsense

Every so often we like to shine the spotlight on our members, and in this case one of the members of the Bristol Initiative. We sat down with Stephen to talk about their life at Solarsense and their...
Sam Harrison
Sam Harrison
Business West
Posted on: 27.09.23
Read more

Bristol Initiative September Members’ Meeting Recap

The recent Bristol Initiative September Members’ Meeting at the RWA was a remarkable gathering of leaders and visionaries dedicated to shaping the future of Bristol. From exciting updates to ground-...
Sam Harrison
Sam Harrison
Business West
Posted on: 15.09.23
Read more

Pages