What is the Inspire Business Circle (IBC) and what’s the benefit to me?
The Inspire Business Circle is a monthly event designed for business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals who want to grow, reflect, and connect in a meaningful way. It’s not about sales or surface-level networking, it’s about building a trusted peer community.
Each session includes a guest speaker, structured peer support through Action Set Learning, and the chance to explore real business challenges in a safe, non-judgmental space. You’ll leave with insight, clarity, and actions you can take straight back into your business.
Who is IBC for?
- Business owners, founders, and entrepreneurs running their own ventures
- Leaders with at least 5 years’ experience who have operated at a senior level and have influenced how a business operates
- People who are prepared share their experiences, knowledge and challenges
Who isn’t it for?
- Those attending only to sell or collect business cards
- Anyone unwilling to contribute positively to the group dynamic
- People who prefer the traditional networking model - we are aware IBC isn’t for everyone
Is there a cost to attend?
No. The sessions are free for now. We’re committed to building something that brings real value to our local business community and we want to make sure it works before we introduce any costs. We will always be open and transparent about any costs.
Do I have to speak or share in the Action Set Learning groups?
No. You are always free to observe, listen, and reflect without taking part in the group conversation. If you do choose to share, you’ll be listened to with respect and curiosity — not judgment. You can also offer insights to others, but again, only if you want to. No pressure, no performance.
How are the discussion groups formed? Will they be big?
Action Set Learning happens in small groups. You won’t be asked to share in front of the whole room. The format is designed to feel safe, respectful, and manageable — whether you’re a solo founder or leading a larger team.
What kind of challenges can we bring to the group?
Anything real and relevant. From recruitment struggles to pricing, team dynamics to growth decisions — if it’s a genuine challenge in your business, it’s welcome. You can also come along without a challenge and still get a lot from hearing how others think things through.
How often will the sessions run?
Monthly. Each session follows the same format – welcome, guest speaker, Q&A, Action Set Learning – so you know what to expect and can plan ahead.
Will I need to commit to every session?
No. You’re welcome to come when you can. If you find it useful and want to be more involved over time, brilliant. But we won’t tie you in or expect a fixed commitment up front.
That said, if you’ve signed up for a peer-to-peer session, we ask that you treat that as a firm commitment. These sessions are structured around confirmed numbers, so unless something urgent or unexpected comes up, we expect those who sign up to attend. It’s about respecting each other’s time and building trust.
What’s the focus? Is it networking, learning, or something else?
The focus is on learning through connection. Yes, you’ll meet other business owners. But the goal isn’t to pitch or sell – it’s to share knowledge, support each other, and make real progress. Relationships will naturally build from that.
How is this different from other business events?
Based on your feedback, here’s what stood out:
- Less about sales, more about support
- More structured and useful than traditional networking
- No forced interactions or pressure to perform
- Rooted in values like honesty, community, and growth
- Focused on action and reflection, not just talk
What topics will future sessions explore?
We’re shaping the programme around your feedback. Themes already suggested include:
- Cash flow and rising costs
- Building and managing teams
- Recruitment challenges
- Staff culture and performance
- Strategy and growth
- AI and tech in traditional businesses
- Public sector opportunities (e.g. NHS)
- Generational differences in the workplace
- Funding and financial resilience
- Young entrepreneurs and startups
Can I be a guest speaker?
Certainly. We’d love to hear from you, especially if you’re open to sharing a challenge you’ve faced in your business or something specific from your leadership journey that others can learn from. This isn’t a platform to sell services, it’s about real experiences, honest reflection, and shared growth.
Will you be sharing attendee lists?
No. We’re deliberately not sharing attendee lists because we don’t want them to be used for sales or marketing purposes. That kind of outreach doesn’t align with the spirit of the Circle. If you connect with someone during a session and want to exchange details, that’s entirely up to you.
How do I get involved?
You can:
- Attend the next session
- Express interest in being a guest speaker or panellist
- Suggest a topic or challenge
- Share the Circle with someone else who’d benefit
This isn’t just an event, it’s a community built around honest conversations and shared progress. We’re glad you’re part of it.
