In the competitive landscape of UK commerce, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) need more than hard work—they need connections, insights, funding routes, and proven strategies. Enter The Great British Business Show, the UK’s largest and most dynamic event for SME leaders, entrepreneurs, and startups. This two-day powerhouse brings together 25,000 business professionals at ExCeL London for a high-impact experience designed to support, inspire, and transform the nation’s small business sector. Keep reading—you’ll want to soak up every detail before heading to the ticket link.
Why This Show Matters
With the UK economy evolving—from post‑pandemic recovery to accelerated digital adoption—resources and support for SMEs have never been more important. That’s where The Great British Business Show delivers: tailored content, practical tools, and expert advice all under one roof. Over 20 years of legacy, this show has consistently helped SMEs navigate growth challenges—whether funding gaps, marketing complexity, or operational scale-up uk.linkedin.com+1cornwallbusinessshow.co.uk+1whitelabelexpo.com.
SMEs that invest time at this show leave with actionable insights—from successful case studies and real business solutions to direct connections with funders and marketers.
Event Overview: Venue, Dates & Schedule
- Venue: ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, London E16 1XL—easily accessible via Elizabeth Line, DLR, and major roads—with extensive onsite parking businesstravelshoweurope.com.
- Dates: 12–13 November 2025 whitelabelexpo.com+3greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk+3facebook.com+3.
- Show Hours: 10:00–17:00 on Day 1, 10:00–16:00 on Day 2 whitelabelexpo.com+12greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk+12greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk+12.
It’s free to attend for SMEs if you register in advance, with paid options for exhibitors and premium services.
Cost and Ticketing Options
- Free entry for visitors upon registration.
- Premium visitor upgrades may include VIP networking access and masterclass attendance.
- Exhibitor packages are available, offering booths, sponsorships, and promotional perks.
Where to Stay Nearby
Consider staying close to ExCeL to maximize your time:
- Novotel London ExCeL – modern and business-focused, located steps away.
- Aloft London ExCeL – stylish and social for those looking to unwind.
- Ibis London Docklands – simple, clean, and value-oriented.
- Crowne Plaza London Docklands – ideal for professionals seeking full amenities.
Booking early ensures best rates during peak event season.
What You’ll Experience
1. Inspiring Keynotes and Panels
Join thought leaders including founders of LADBible, Trustpilot, Uber Ads, and Dragons’ Den icon Touker Suleyman. These sessions explore startup hurdles, leadership, marketing strategy, and international expansion british-business-bank.co.uk+15greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk+15uk.linkedin.com+15eventseye.com.
2. Focused Masterclasses
Get hands-on with workshops on funding pathways, digital marketing, sales tactics, hiring strategies, and operations optimisation—these are led by practitioners with real SME experience.
3. Speed Networking & Matchmaking
Quick-fire networking zones and a matchmaking app ensure you meet the people you need—peers, providers, mentors, and potential partners.
4. Consultancy Zones
Book one-on-one sessions with trusted advisors in finance, legal, growth strategy, accountancy, and marketing—perfect for tailored guidance to solve pressing challenges.
5. Exhibitor Hall
Discover 250+ stands showcasing banks, government funding bodies, digital platforms, and marketing agencies. Many exhibitors offer SME-specific support packages—including marketing services tailored for startups .
6. Startup Pitch Competition
Selected startups receive the chance to pitch live on stage for funding, visibility, and mentorship—often in front of investors and Dragons’ Den personalities.
7. Post‑Event Resources
Attendees get access to session recordings, speaker decks, and ongoing support via online networks—ensuring learning extends well beyond the show floors.
Who Will Benefit
- Founders and startup teams launching or scaling
- SME owners aiming to accelerate growth
- Entrepreneurs exploring franchising or new business models
- Marketing and finance professionals seeking new tools
- Consultants and advisors looking to connect with SMEs
- Funding bodies and investors scouting emerging businesses
If you have a stake in growing a UK business—from 1 to 100+ employees—you’ll find your blueprint for success here.
Top Benefits for Attendees
- Funding opportunities – connect with banks, the British Business Bank, and angels. SME lending has increased significantly this year eventseye.com+3greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk+3knovolution.com+3facebook.com+2business-reporter.co.uk+2ft.com+2thesun.co.ukgreatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk+2greatbritishbusinessshow.co.uk+2eventbrite.co.uk+2thetimes.co.uk+1british-business-bank.co.uk+1.
- Marketing and growth strategy – access expert-led workshops and discover cost-efficient tactics.
- Peer learning – learn from those who have overcome the same challenges.
- Expert advice – gain clarity through one-to-one sessions with advisors.
- Visibility – pitch on stage, connect with influencers, and elevate your business profile.
- Planning tools – leave armed with checklists, frameworks, and actionable strategies.
How to Maximise Your Visit
- Register early and download the event app to personalise your schedule.
- Pre-book masterclasses and advisor sessions in advance.
- Prepare a 30-second pitch for networking and matchmaking.
- Bring digital materials—cards or QR codes linked to your site or profile.
- Take clear notes and schedule post-show follow-up meetings.
- Stay active in the post-event network to build long-term collaborations.
Final Word
The Great British Business Show isn’t just another event—it’s the most comprehensive opportunity for UK SMEs to accelerate. From hands-on growth strategies and funding insights to powerful connections and long-term support, the value is unmatched.
Plan to attend, plan to grow—and come away with a stronger business built for the next phase.
Book Your Free Ticket Now
Secure your place at the UK’s premier SME growth event—join thousands of peers, experts, and solution providers at ExCeL London this November:
👉 Visit here to book your ticket for The Great British Business Show