Council launches business week to boost town's economy

Why it matters: The initiative aims to promote collaboration and innovation within Ipswich's business community, with more than a dozen events planned across the town.

The big picture: Ipswich Borough Council is organising the Ipswich Thrive: Business Week from March 10-18, designed to bring together businesses of all sizes to celebrate success and shape the town's economic future.

What they're saying: "This week is an unmissable opportunity for local businesses to come together, celebrate success, and shape the future of our vibrant community," said Cllr Neil MacDonald, Ipswich Borough Council Leader.

The details: The week-long festival will include:

• Panel discussions and keynote speeches from industry leaders

• Workshops and training sessions for small businesses and entrepreneurs

• Networking events to promote collaboration

• Business expos showcasing local businesses and start-ups

By the numbers: The programme features more than a dozen business events throughout the week.

Supporting voices:

• Tim Robinson, Chief Operations Officer at Tech East, called it "a great opportunity to network, to make new partners and contacts"

• Doug Rintoul, Chief Executive of the New Wolsey Theatre, described it as "a brilliant boost of energy into economic growth"

• Craig Parry, business development manager at IJYI, emphasised that "the collaboration side of things is really important"

The bottom line: The initiative aims to embrace digital innovation, forge strategic cross-sector partnerships, and rethink community engagement in the town, according to project manager Nicki Bramford.