Helping ideas become action
Our Innovation programme is dedicated to championing innovation and supporting scaleups, while helping businesses embrace change with confidence.
Anchored by world-class universities and leading corporates, this group provides the platform for ideas to grow and thrive, by connecting and supporting entrepreneurs, founders, funders, academics, and corporates, to spark meaningful progress.
Innovation culture and mindset
Scaleup challenges
Funding and partnerships
University and R&D collaboration
Emerging tech and future trends
Upcoming Events
Explore our upcoming events and find out what’s on.
- Conference
Trailblazing Tech Conference 2026
- Innovation
What Awaits You at TT26?
We will be exploring what the region’s strategic status means for businesses and communities. Highlighting Manchester’s growing strength in investment, tech, and fintech, and framing the opportunities ahead. We will hear from founders, professionals and innovators sharing real-world success stories, offering practical insight into how funding, technology, automation, and AI are being used to drive meaningful business growth within the local ecosystem.
We look ahead to future growth and the role of data in enabling transformation, with discussions focusing on how businesses can unlock potential through better decision-making and emerging tech. Attendees will hear from trailblazing companies at the forefront of innovation, we have a dedicated “Hour of AI” designed to cut through the hype and provide clear, practical understanding of how AI can be applied across organisations of all sizes.
A live podcast brings a fresh, conversational take on the future of business, and we will be exploring how companies are using technology to scale effectively without increasing headcount, demonstrating how AI and automation can enhance, rather than replace, human capability.
- Seminar
Innovation sector event
- Innovation
Please write a brief description here
Who it’s for…
Founders, future-focused professionals, and organisations committed to staying ahead of the curve.
Our Committee
Becoming a member of a pro-manchester committee is an opportunity to play an active role in shaping the future of Greater Manchester’s business community.
You’ll work alongside industry leaders and experts to co-create activity, share insight and drive initiatives that create real opportunity for members and the wider region.
Member testimonials
Pro Manchester is more than a network, it is a community! A community which is connected, engaged through events. It has year on year transformed the Manchester business community, by offering opportunities to ethnic minorities and a meaningful step-up for the those early on in their career and bringing businesses together! If you are not in this network, get signed up, it is an opportunity you don’t want to miss.
Dr Amna Khan
Senior Lecturer in Marketing specialising in Consumer Behaviour and Retailing at Manchester Metropolitan University
From the moment I first connected with pro-manchester, I felt genuinely welcomed. Their warmth, integrity and commitment to building a stronger North West business community shines through in all they set out to achieve.
pro-manchester goes far beyond simply connecting people as real, lasting relationships are formed when collaborating with the team. It’s a space where you feel supported not only in business goals, but in your personal growth too. You benefit from the team’s creative vision, their innovative approach and their genuine belief in the people they work with. That kind of environment doesn’t solely open doors, it empowers you to walk through them with confidence and clarity.
Through the panels, committees and events I have been a part of, I’ve not only expanded my network but also found allies, collaborators and friends. The conversations are thought provoking, the collaboration is authentic, and the ripple effect of their work extends far beyond the event.
pro-manchester is much, much more than a network; it’s a catalyst for progress. I’m proud to be an ambassador and to champion the incredible work they do, supporting and inspiring businesses while shaping a future that we can all be excited about.
Alex Clapp
Founder of Claritee Group Ltd
Pro-Manchester is like having a secret business ninja in your back pocket, picking up subjects that support businesses and growth, promote the region, and showcase the best of Manchester. Every place needs a Pro-Ninja!
Andrea Winders
Head of Inward Investment for Life Sciences and Healthcare at MIDAS Manchester’s Inward Investment Agency
What I love about Pro-Manchester is how genuinely welcoming it is. The events always feel very purpose driven, so it’s easy to meet people and learn from different perspectives! The panel discussions are brilliant, with really interesting topics and well-represented speakers.
The opportunity to speak to large audiences at events like Trailblazing Tech, while building a company in my twenties, has been an amazing experience. The community is not only welcoming and supportive but also exceptionally well-organized and professional.
Caroline Welsh
Operations Director at Leafyard
As a relative newbie to the city of Manchester and its business community, pro-manchester has provided me with an invaluable networking starting point to build my professional network and relationships. My involvement with the pro-manchester corporate finance committee has given me and Bermans excellent exposure and the opportunity to have an insight and understanding of the ongoings and developments in the Manchester CF community. The quality, variety and volume of networking events pro-manchester hosts is second to none.
Laura McMorland
Partner at Bermans
Pro-Manchester has been a fantastic partner for NetZero.co.uk. Their network, events, and insights have connected us with like-minded businesses across the region, helping us share our vision for a low-carbon future. Having been office neighbours, we know the team well and their professionalism and passion for supporting Greater Manchester’s business community shines through in everything they do, and we’re proud to be part of it.
Mark Hammond
Founder at Net Zero
As a representative of Finance Isle of Man and Fintech committee member at Pro-Manchester, I can confidently say that this network has been instrumental in building meaningful business relationships across Greater Manchester and beyond. Pro-Manchester provides an exceptional platform for professionals to connect, collaborate, and create genuine opportunities for growth.
What sets Pro-Manchester apart is its commitment to fostering authentic business relationships rather than superficial networking. The quality of members, the calibre of events, and the genuine spirit of collaboration make it an invaluable resource for any business looking to establish a strong presence in the North-West.
From the Isle of Man perspective, Pro-Manchester has been crucial in helping us bridge the gap between our island’s financial & professional services sector and Greater Manchester’s dynamic business ecosystem. The connections we’ve made through this network have led to real partnerships and tangible business outcomes.
I would recommend Pro-Manchester to any serious business professional looking to expand their network with purpose and integrity.
Paul Blake
Senior Financial Services Executive at Isle of Man Department of Enterprise
Working with Pro-Manchester has not only allowed me to grow professionally, but personally. The opportunities, support and network that they provide across all sectors in Greater Manchester is unrivalled and I’m delighted to be part of it.
Richard Sherwood
Head of Commercial Partnerships at Marketing Manchester
Pro Manchester is not just about turning up to events. It is a proper community where people back each other and share what works. It is a place where you can throw ideas around, challenge the usual way of doing things, and get support to try new approaches. The connections are real, and the conversations have purpose.
James Spencer
Managing Director of Xentum
Pro-Manchester has been an invaluable partner in my personal and business journey. Their commitment to fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and innovative environment has significantly contributed to my growth and success in Manchester. The networking opportunities, insightful events, and access to a wealth of resources have not only helped me develop professionally but also enabled me to “stay curious” but also give back to others.
I am proud to be associated with an organization that truly understands and supports the needs of the business community and in the Manchester communities. Pro-Manchester’s dedication to equality, diversity, inclusivity and the championing of Neurodiversity, has ensured that every member feels valued and respected. This creates a welcoming atmosphere for all.
Additionally, their focus on well-being has helped me maintain a healthy work-life balance, which is essential for long-term success and mental well-being. One of the great things about Pro-Manchester is that I’ve made many friends rather than just LinkedIn connections, and I’ve had lots of fun on this journey. It feels like a Family.
Paul Clayton
Product owner
Serving as a Director of pro-manchester has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The organisation plays a vital role in supporting business growth, professional development, and networking across Greater Manchester. With a diverse membership spanning multiple sectors, pro-manchester offers a dynamic platform for businesses to connect, collaborate, and thrive.
From the perspective of my day job as a Business Engagement Manager at The University of Manchester, being on the board has been particularly valuable. It enables us to actively promote opportunities for collaboration between businesses and the University of Manchester to firms who may be unaware of such engagement mechanisms as a route to support their development and innovation; it also provides a route to showcase academic expertise through event participation, bringing different perspectives to complement industry-expert speakers. This not only helps amplify the impact of our research but also strengthens the bridge between academia and industry.
pro-manchester is a highly professional organisation, and I would strongly encourage any business looking to build its profile and network within Greater Manchester to become a member.
Rachel Kenyon,
Business Engagement Manager, The University of Manchester
Being a member of Pro-Manchester, and more recently a committee member of one of the steering groups, has been a gateway for me to access and work with a dynamic business community in Manchester.
It’s a community that fosters genuine connections and collaborative opportunities, offers thought leadership in key sectors and brings together professionals from all areas of Manchester’s business eco-system.
The events held, whether breakfast briefings or flagship events, are always thought provoking and well attended and I’ve come away from several with fresh ideas and new connections.
Gary Fenemore
Director at S&W
Truth has been a member of Pro-Manchester since 2018. We have been able to connect with other business owners and profile our brand through events and training sessions during that time. Unlike other networks, Pro-Manchester gives you the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are genuinely interested in connecting, not just for a quick sell. Our co-founder, Jo Scott has been the chairwoman of the Creative, Digital and Media committee for the last 18 months – where she steers the content for the various events. Pro-Manchester is wholly supportive in the committee sessions and is able to organise the events and attendees seamlessly. It’s a great profiling membership for your business.
Jo Scott
Managing partner at Truth Creative
Pro-Manchester is a force for business and professional growth across Greater Manchester. Their events foster meaningful connections, unite a diverse range of professionals, and spark fresh thinking. The welcoming environment and tailored resources provide vital support for growth and collaboration.
The team’s dedication is evident in every interaction—they’re proactive, knowledgeable, and always ready to help. Their events and workshops are thoughtfully curated to develop skills, encourage innovation, and offer real value. Notably, pro-Manchester’s genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures everyone has a voice and a place in the business community.
I’ve seen first-hand how pro-Manchester helps members thrive: from forging strategic partnerships to gaining new insights and building confidence. My membership continues to enrich my professional journey, and I’m confident it will continue to empower many more people and businesses in our region to keep Manchester well and truly on the map for innovation, business and our community.
Charlotte Beck
partner at Slater Heelis
pro-manchester has been an invaluable platform for driving innovation and collaboration within the Greater Manchester healthcare sector. Their Healthcare group expertly addresses critical issues such as NHS pressures, public-private partnerships, and the integration of cutting-edge health technologies. Through their events, roundtables, and insightful content, pro-manchester fosters a dynamic community that connects healthcare leaders, innovators, and professionals. This has made a tangible impact on advancing healthcare innovation and delivering tangible improvements to the region’s health and wellbeing. Their commitment to inclusive dialogue and sector growth truly sets pro-manchester apart as a catalyst for positive change in healthcare.
Jamie Goodwin
Business Engagement Officer, University of Manchester
Pro-Manchester offers City in the Community a great professional platform for building proactive connections with Manchester’s thriving business community. It enables us to raise awareness of the incredible opportunities to establish meaningful partnerships which contribute to empowering healthier lives through football and blending social impact and community value with business success and economic growth for the city.
Louise Wright
Head of Partnerships, City in the Community
Pro-Manchester is a great network of individuals from all sectors and industries. The events hosted are always interesting, fun and rewarding . You will never leave a Pro-Manchester event without having made a new connection or without having learned something valuable (or both!) I’m proud to be a member of the Future Pro committee and upon joining in May 2025, I was made to feel welcome from the off.
Callum Duff
Solicitors, Kuits
Testimonial Louise Varley
In my opinion, Pro Manchester is the most professional networking organisation in the region. It has expanded my professional network through a varied and thought-provoking range of events.
I am proud to be a member of the Pro-Women Committee, supporting one aspect of Pro Manchester’s inclusivity agenda.
Testimonial Dr Eliza Morgan
I was drawn to Pro Manchester because it is more than a transactional networking organisation. It is committed to delivering for the Manchester region’s businesses and people. As a business we have established relationships with our core market and gained new, long-term partners and clients.
I am proud to be a member of the Skills Committee, which offers me the opportunity to provide insights and knowledge to support Pro Manchester’s agenda of raising aspirations and delivering outcomes for businesses.
Louise Varley and Eliza Morgan
Directors, Honey & Morgan
Few organisations have pushed Greater Manchester forward like pro-manchester have. It is unbelievable how many events, connections and programmes their small team run for members. Connecting the best of Manchester’s economy, every year they find new ways to add value to this ecosystem and champion our best businesses. Acting as a direct conduit to the professional services sector, they are an essential part of the Manchester success story over the last decade. My experience chairing the Innovation committee has renewed my beliefs around how collaborative our city is. I believe Pro-manchester will play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s future.
Ben Davies
Group Marketing Director, Praetura Ventures
Being part of pro-manchester has opened up fantastic opportunities for City in the Community to connect with a diverse and influential business network across Greater Manchester. The events, insights and introductions have helped us to raise awareness of our work and explore new connections that make a real difference to people in our city. It’s a brilliant community to be part of – supportive, welcoming and full of energy.
Rachel Clarkson
Head of Communications & Engagement, City in the Community
Pro-manchester is more than a network. It’s a thriving community that connects ambitious professionals with the people, ideas, and opportunities that shape Greater Manchester’s future. Whether you are looking to grow your business, develop your career, or make meaningful connections, pro-manchester creates a platform where collaboration truly drives success.
Sophie Holt-Rogers
Trainee Solicitor, Harrison Drury Solicitors
Being a member of the of Pro-Manchester’s Green Economy Committee is a crucial part of my networking activities with other local businesses in the region. It allows me to develop relationships with senior stakeholders from other local businesses to share learnings and ideas, whilst contributing to key industry events and instigating change and green growth in the region.
Emily Hesketh
Partner at Deloitte
Being part of Pro-Manchester as Saffery’s rep has been a rewarding experience. From joining the Corporate Finance committee to speaking on panels like the Corporate Finance Lunch, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with a diverse network of professionals, share insights, and contribute to conversations that matter. It’s a community I’m proud to be part of, and I look forward to continuing to support its mission.
Erin Berry
Director, Saffery LLP
Being a member of the of Pro-Manchester’s Green Economy Committee is a crucial part of my networking activities with other local businesses in the region. It allows me to develop relationships with senior stakeholders from other local businesses to share learnings and ideas, whilst contributing to key industry events and instigating change and green growth in the region.
Samantha Byrne
Director of Sales & Marketing, Manchester Marriott Hotel Piccadilly
How to Get Involved
Get involved – become a member or explore sponsorship opportunities and help us continue to grow and inspire.
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