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Five small-business events not to miss in 2012
With so many business events to choose from each year, it’s hard to know where to spend your time. But whether you’re looking for start-up tips, technical know-how or industry contacts, we’ve picked out the best events for you in 2012
Here are the best small-business events to attend:
1. For technology…
Showcasing the latest trends in digital marketing and ecommerce, this event is a mecca for everything tech-related. Visitors can meet more than 300 suppliers, test new tech and attend seminars covering everything from online advertising to mobile marketing.
London Earls Court, 24-26 April, register for free entry.
Alternative…
Technology for Marketing and Advertising 2012
This well established trade show offers seminars and exhibitions covering the latest trends in marketing, advertising and technology. This year, visitors can check out more than 250 exhibitors, hang out in the ‘App Zone’ or attend seminars run by Google and Facebook.
London Earls Court 2, 28-29 February, register for free entry.
2. For start-ups…
This biannual event includes seminars, workshops and speed networking sessions. Last year, approximately 18,000 people attended the November show. A must for anyone looking to start their own venture or grow their business, the show will feature more than 200 exhibitors ranging from accountants and business angels to networking groups.
Speakers include former Dragon James Caan and Penny Power, co-founder of business social networking site Ecademy. This year’s event will also include Business Connections, the largest networking event in the UK.
London ExCel, 17-18 May, register for free entry.
Alternative…
Start-Up Saturday will run once a month throughout 2012 and is aimed at anyone looking to set up their own business. Sessions will be run by Enterprise Nation founder Emma Jones and include uncovering your business idea, essential points to include in your business plan, straightforward finance tips and key social media tools.
London, O2 Centre, tickets cost £30.
3. For local events…
Looking for inspiration, ideas and business contacts? Business North West 2012 is free, aimed at small firms and will bring together more than 100 exhibitors in the business services sector. Don’t miss the ‘Lion’s Lair’, a Dragons’ Den style contest where exhibitors get to showcase their best new innovations to business experts, or attend an angel funding clinic, supplier speed networking and more.
Manchester Central, 17-18 April.
Alternative…
HM Revenue & Customs Employer & Business Advice
Aimed at business owners who are about to take on their first recruit, as well as those in need of general legal advice on running a small business, these free open days are being run across the country throughout January and February.
Locations include Glasgow (22 Feb), Kings Lynn (22 Feb) and London (24 Feb).
4. For franchises…
The National Franchise Exhibition
Would-be franchisees can get the latest news on international and UK franchise opportunities, meet legal and financial specialists and hear real-life success stories from franchisees themselves.
Birmingham NEC, 24-25 February, tickets cost £15 on the day or you can register for free using the promotion code NFSBDD.
Alternative…
The British Franchise Exhibition
This two-day event will include a programme of seminars and workshops for those thinking about going into the franchise business.
Manchester Central, 8-9 June, tickets cost £10 on the day or you can register for free using the promotional code BFELDD.
5. For social media and search…
Search engine strategies (SES) London Conference & Expo
The conference is the leading search marketing event in Europe. Anyone keen to brush up on new trends in social media or online marketing should attend. Attendees will receive tips from leading suppliers and vendors, and hear some of the industry’s brightest minds giving advice on SEO.
London Queen Elizabeth II Centre, 20-24 Feb, tickets start at £299.
Alternative…
Social Media World Forum Europe
This two-day event features key speakers, topical Q&A sessions, industry debates, workshops and networking, covering areas such as return on investment from social media, mobile marketing and apps, as well as blogging and optimising your website.
London Olympia, 27-28 March, register for a free exhibition pass.
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