South: Thames Valley FSB activists influence future of UK economy

The voice of Thames Valley businesses will be heard at a major conference in London on January 27. Senior cabinet ministers, a former adviser on small business issues to American president Obama, Karen Mills, and leading entrepreneurs will come together at the Federation of Small Businesses’ (FSB) first Policy Conference. 

The event will shape not only the future of small businesses in the Thames Valley but also across the UK, helping influence the agenda for enterprise, growth and educational skills. The FSB, the leading voice of business, believes small firms will form a vital part of the economic and political debate in 2014 and beyond.

Recent FSB research shows confidence is on the rise among Thames Valley small businesses, with many looking to grow in 2014. For this growth to be achieved and small firms to fulfil their role in the economy, hurdles such as access to finance, burdensome regulation, and the gap between skills and employability must be overcome.

In the US, the Small Business Administration, formerly headed by Karen Mills, spearheaded efforts to remove barriers to growth for small firms and acted as a powerful voice in the heart of government on behalf of those businesses. Discussions on the day will be framed by the question of whether a similar institution could work in the UK, with David Knowles Leak, regional chair, ensuring that the concerns and issues of Thames Valley businesses are taken on board.

He said: "The role of small firms has never been more important. While we already work with our MP, local councils and schools this event is an exciting opportunity for senior cabinet members, smart and influential economists and dynamic entrepreneurs to hear the Thames Valley's questions and for us to shape future UK policy.”

The FSB is streaming the conference live to a global audience.

Register at www.fsb-policy-conference.co.uk and join the debate on Twitter by following and using #FSBGrowth and #FSBSkills