West Midlands Business Festival 2026: a packed programme of free events

Sandwell businesses are being encouraged to take part in the West Midlands Business Festival 2026, a major regional programme of more than 110 free events designed to support business growth, innovation and investment.

Taking place from Monday 2 to Friday 13 February 2026, the Festival will bring together thousands of SMEs, entrepreneurs and business leaders from across the West Midlands.

The programme covers a wide range of topics relevant to Sandwell businesses, including exporting, artificial intelligence, digital marketing, cyber security, leadership, funding and investment, workplace mental health, retail and the night-time economy. With events aimed at early-stage start-ups, growing SMEs and established organisations, the Festival offers practical learning, insight and valuable networking opportunities for businesses at every stage.

Sandwell events during the Festival

As a supporting partner, Sandwell Council is hosting and taking part in three events during the two-week programme. These include:

Get Connected in Sandwell: neurodiversity and workplace mental health
A networking and learning session exploring why mental health and neurodiversity should be a workplace priority, with practical insight for employers. It takes place on Wednesday 4 February 2026, 8:30am to 11:00am at the Sandwell Start-Up Hub, Oldbury.

Black Country Chamber Expo: connect, showcase and grow
A large-scale business expo bringing together exhibitors, speakers and networking opportunities for businesses across all sectors. This event takes place at the Wolverhampton Racecourse on Thursday 5 February 2026, 10:00am to 2:00pm

Sandwell Business Ambassadors Round Table: business rates and tax
A focused, discussion-led round table bringing businesses, ambassadors and experts together to explore key challenges around business rates and taxation. Join the Ambassadors at the Sandwell Start-Up Hub, Oldbury on Wednesday 11 February 2026, 9:30am to 11:30am

Alongside these events, there are more than 110 sessions taking place across the West Midlands, giving Sandwell businesses plenty of choice to tailor their Festival experience to their needs and ambitions.