Hi Peter,

I've discussed this with a few contacts and think it is an excellent idea - there can be huge power in building a network and understanding amongst your (VERY) local business contacts.

There are however, many potential hurdles to overcome to put on an event that appeals to both the likes of Icon and Roche as much as it does to a small engineering firm or even one-man band on the parks.

Could I suggest this as a basic format to explore that "might" work:
> The event is geared to be not-for-profit, thereby removing most objections to sizes of plots and so on

> Every business that attends pays a nominal amount, but for that figure recieves a standardised banner stand (pop up stand) of around 1m x 2.5m high. They then all have the same space in the hall(s) This advertising banner should be of use to almost every business, whether it is used for future events or in the reception of their offices.

> Every business can only have a maximum number of representatives at the event to avoid overcrowding

> Utilise some sort of "would like to meet" board where specific contacts can find each other.

> Publish a simple directory of every business that attends (and the others if possible), so we have a full list of all relevant businesses in the parks area - specifically for the purpose of increasing understanding of who is around.

> Promote the event to the wider audience via the BHTC, Oakmeeds, St Pauls (etc) so that it could be used to help generate employment opportunities / awareness too.

These are just my initial thoughts on a vision of how it COULD work, we need to start somewhere and I think it is imperative that it is not biased toward any size or type of business, this could be an immensly powerful tool for every business on the parks, sparking collaborative working, greener business, increased buying power, and much more!

- Nick