On Thursday, 11th July, the historic Tileyard North mill in Wakefield was buzzing with excitement. The ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ event, organized by 2-Work, brought together over 70 business owners for a day of networking and discovery. Guests indulged in food, drinks, and a tour of the premises filled with vibrant local businesses showcasing their offerings.
Meanwhile, attendees were treated to insightful talks from notable figures like Gal Leslie, co-founder of 2-Work, and Claire Sutherley, managing director for We Are Wakefield. The discussions highlighted the power of networking and the robust support system available for businesses in the district. Set against the backdrop of the iconic Rutland Mills development, the event was a testament to Wakefield’s growing business community.
Event Overview
The ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ event took place on Thursday, 11th July at Tileyard North’s historic mill. The event, hosted by 2-Work, welcomed more than 70 business owners. Guests enjoyed food, drink, networking, and a chance to visit dozens of local businesses promoting their products and services. Attendees also had the opportunity to tour the building and listen to talks from various notable speakers.
During the event, co-founder and director of 2-Work, Gal Leslie, and Claire Sutherley, managing director for We Are Wakefield, spoke on the significance of networking. Meanwhile, Gurpreet Singh Bansal, business support officer for Wakefield First, and Keith Evans, Ad:Venture’s business manager for Wakefield Council, discussed the support available for businesses across the district. The gathering was set within the Rutland Mills development, close to the famous Hepworth Gallery. This venue recently opened its doors and offers coworking and private office spaces for businesses across Wakefield.
Key Highlights
Galit Leslie expressed gratitude to all the attendees and partners who contributed to the success of the event. She thanked the stallholders, attendees, existing members, and new faces. Special thanks were given to the partners at Tileyard North for the welcome drinks and to Ben at The Pizza Yard for providing delicious pizza. Leslie expressed excitement for future events and looked forward to welcoming even more attendees.
Gurpreet Singh Bansal, who also spoke at the event, highlighted the importance of the ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ event. He described the event as “brilliant and well-organised.” He was pleased to deliver a presentation about Wakefield First and to showcase the support they offer businesses in the district. He had meaningful conversations with aspiring entrepreneurs, businesses, and partners. Bansal emphasised the opportunity to network with others and learn about the different support provisions on offer.
Venue Significance
Tileyard North is part of the iconic Rutland Mills development, an area with rich historical significance. The venue is adjacent to the renowned Hepworth Gallery in Wakefield. The mill’s transformation into a coworking and private office space hub adds to the cultural and economic vibrancy of the region.
The development aims to provide a modern, collaborative work environment for businesses of all sizes. The venue is designed to foster creativity and innovation, attracting both established businesses and startups. The location’s historical background adds a unique charm, blending the old with the new to create a stimulating work environment.
The presence of such a venue in Wakefield highlights the town’s growth and development. It serves as a beacon for businesses looking to thrive in a supportive and inspiring setting. The historic mill’s revitalisation into a modern workspace represents a significant step in Wakefield’s economic progress.
Guest Speakers and Their Contributions
Gal Leslie, co-founder and director of 2-Work, spoke passionately about the event and its significance. She highlighted the importance of networking and community support in fostering business growth. Leslie’s remarks underscored the collaborative spirit that events like ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ aim to promote.
Claire Sutherley, managing director for We Are Wakefield, also shared insights on the power of networking. She emphasised the benefits of building connections and collaborating with local businesses. Sutherley’s speech focused on the positive impact that a strong business community can have on individual success and regional development.
Gurpreet Singh Bansal and Keith Evans both provided valuable information on the support available for businesses in Wakefield. Their presentations were well-received and offered practical advice for entrepreneurs and business owners. The speakers’ contributions added depth to the event, making it a comprehensive resource for all attendees.
The variety of speakers at the event illustrated the diverse support network available in Wakefield. From government officials to private sector leaders, the range of perspectives offered provided a holistic view of the business landscape in the region.
Networking Opportunities
The ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ event offered numerous networking opportunities for attendees. The chance to meet and interact with like-minded individuals helped foster a sense of community among local businesses.
Businesses had the opportunity to showcase their products and services, gaining visibility and potential clients. The event facilitated meaningful connections that could lead to future collaborations and partnerships.
Networking at the event was not limited to formal presentations. Informal interactions during the food and drink sessions also played a crucial role. These relaxed settings allowed for more personal and in-depth conversations, strengthening professional relationships.
Future Prospects
The success of the ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ event sets a promising precedent for future events. The organisers aim to continue providing a platform for local businesses to connect, collaborate, and grow.
Future events are expected to attract even more attendees, expanding the network of businesses in Wakefield. By building on the success of this event, future gatherings can offer even more resources and opportunities for business growth.
Support for Local Businesses
The support available for local businesses in Wakefield was a key focus of the event. Various speakers highlighted the resources and assistance provided by organisations like Wakefield First and the Wakefield Council.
This support ranges from financial assistance to networking opportunities and business advice. The aim is to create a thriving business community in Wakefield, helping businesses to grow and succeed.
Attendee Experience
Attendees of the ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ event shared positive feedback about their experience. They appreciated the organisation and the variety of activities available.
Many found the opportunity to tour the historic Tileyard North mill and learn about its transformation particularly enlightening. The combination of networking, presentations, and tours made for a well-rounded event.
In conclusion, the ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ event was a noteworthy gathering that successfully highlighted the vibrant business community in Wakefield. Held at the historic Tileyard North, the event offered attendees a unique blend of networking opportunities and educational talks from key figures in the local business ecosystem.
The event not only provided a platform for businesses to showcase their offerings but also underlined the importance of community, support, and collaboration in driving economic growth. With its promising start, future iterations of the ‘Ey Up Wakefield’ event are likely to draw even more participants, further strengthening the business network in the district.
