Online event: Future forward – helping small businesses thrive in a changing world 

Published on October 22, 2025
 

Small businesses across the UK, in our FNConnect community are invited to join Future Forward, a forward-thinking online event, designed to help entrepreneurs and founders prepare for the next 5 to 10 years of growth and transformation. 

Register here 

Hosted by FNConnect, Future Forward will take place virtually and promises an evening of expert insights, interactive sessions, and meaningful connections.  

The event is tailored to equip small businesses with practical strategies to navigate change, protect intellectual property, and build resilient organisational cultures. 

What to expect 
Whether you're scaling up or just starting out, Future Forward offers a rich programme of content and conversation: 

18:00: Event opens and FNConnect welcome 
Kick off the evening with a warm welcome and overview of what’s ahead. 

18:10: Icebreaker activity 
Get to know fellow attendees in a relaxed, interactive session. 

18:30: Speaker 1 – Louise Mansion (Marks & Clerks LLP) 
Learn how to protect and leverage your intellectual property as your business grows. 

18:55: Speaker 2 – Dr Brandon Robertson (Commercial Intuition) 
Explore how to build organisations that thrive on change in his talk,  

“Future-Proofing Through Culture.” 

19:20: Panel discussion 
A thought-provoking conversation chaired by David McNaught, featuring: 

  • Dr Aleksandra Bavdaz (SensFish and University of Glasgow) 

  • Madeleine Landell (Exotopic / University of Bradford) 

  • A third panellist to be confirmed 

19:55: Reflections and key takeaways 
Wrap up the evening with a summary of insights and practical next steps. 

20:00: Optional networking 
Join informal breakout rooms for up to 30 minutes of relaxed conversation and connection. 

Why attend 
Future Forward is more than just an event. It’s a chance to connect with like-minded business leaders, gain actionable advice, and prepare your organisation for long-term success in a rapidly evolving landscape. 

Registration is open now Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of this energising and insightful evening.