Leaders including Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester expressed the need to support local business

The day began with a talk from keynote speakers which included local business owners from Impressions Uniforms – a company aiming to make their carbon impact as low as possible. Other key note speakers included David Molyneux MBE, Wigan council members Aidan Thatcher and Claire Burnham, Wigan Enterprise Board’s Gary Speakman, and Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham. A clear message throughout all the speeches was the importance of supporting local businesses and helping them thrive, as well as raising awareness of sustainability.

The Green Economy team spoke to Wigan business owners who are interested in improving their sustainability, or are looking to move into the green tech market. Business advisors Priya Sirpal and Ashley Hulme, alongside our Green Index coordinator Tom Degg and Market Intelligence Officer Lola Wiseberg headed up the Green Economy stand in the business support area. We were able to offer free advice and information to local businesses including suppliers in green tech and buyers who want grow their business. It was clear from the festival that Wigan are keen to continue their journey to net zero!

Green Economy members EnergyAce, Perfect Sense Energy and The Purpose Project showcased their green tech and services at the Wigan event

The Business Growth Hub’s Alasdair Dalzel-Job held a workshop to identify what energy efficiency barriers Wigan businesses are facing and how they can be solved. Green Economy’s Vicky Wilding then walked the businesses through our marketplace and explained how we can support businesses on their journey to net zero.

Vicky introduced three local Wigan green tech businesses who are also Green Economy members to demonstrate how our team helps businesses in the sector to access new sales opportunities and grow. Energy Ace, Perfect Sense Energy, and The Purpose Project all provided information to the workshop on how to overcome the barriers to green technology and sustainable solutions. Energy Ace help businesses assess their energy efficiency and provide solutions through voltage management and power factor correction. Perfect Sense Energy offer installation of various sustainable swaps, including lighting, heating and electricity. Finally the Purpose Project provides sustainable and ethical branding and marketing to businesses who want to increase their publicity. These three local Wigan businesses are testament to the demand for green technology.

The Wigan Believe in Business Festival provided opportunities for local businesses to connect with each other and grow their sustainable practices. We hope to see more Wigan businesses sign up to our free marketplace to make more local connections and work with us to grow their brand!