Join The West of England Initiative

If you've been inspired and galvanised by the work that we do, and are looking to engage with strategic issues in our region at a higher level; get involved now by becoming a member of The West of England Initiative.

Be part of an influential community

Being a fully-fledged member of The West of England Initiative means being part of a community of over 250 influential business leaders working in conjunction with the local authorities toward the goal of making the West of England region an economic and cultural powerhouse of the UK. These business people work to make a difference right across the city-region and not only share our long-term vision for the future of the city region, but are able to make decisions, influence others, and play an active role on key issues.

Initiative members have the opportunity to:

  • Contribute to the community as corporate citizens
  • Collaborate and build relationships with senior players across all sectors
  • Receive briefings and early notice on key matters of local strategic importance
  • Participate in our working groups
  • Hear from and engage with key local, regional and national figures including senior governmental ministers
  • Submit thought leadership pieces detailing what work their business is doing in relation to key policy areas
  • Access Bristol Business, Law School and Engine Shed facilities
  • Become a Fellow of the University of the West of England, Business School
  • Raise their profile via the Business West website

Raise your profile 

Through an online account on this website Initiative members can access a range of publishing options so to raise their profile across the region, via a company profile in the members directory and publish blogs, events, opportunities.

Attend key events

Quarterly Meetings

Currently The Initiative meets formally four times a year in our quarterly evening meetings. The meetings are a great opportunity to collaborate with other influential organisations, listen to inspiring presentations from International dignitaries and to discuss the latest policies and projects taking place affecting our city region.

Bi-Monthly Lunch Meetings

The Initiative also meets bi-monthly. Lunch meetings which are hosted by one of the members and focus on key local issues in the region. These meetings enable businesses to get involved and express their views and ideas on key local and regional issues, views which can be represented by us at key strategic and local partnerships and Chamber Committees.

Take part in working groups

The Initiative also runs, or plays a part in a wide number of working groups. Current working groups which members can get involved with alongside our team are; Planning and Transport, Cumberland Basin, Bristol City Office- tackling homelessness and providing work experience and South-West Anti Slavery Partnership. These working groups are great for business leaders who really want to make a difference to the local region and who are interested in and capable of influencing policy in these areas.

Join The Initiative today

If you would like to join The West of England Initiative or would like to hear more about us and what we do, please contact us at initiative@businesswest.co.uk

Tel: 01275 370707