SWM Annual Conference 2026 – The Power of the Social Economy for Sustainability and Stability

The Event 

This year’s Sustainability West Midlands Annual Conference will bring together senior leaders from business, local government, academia, social enterprise, and the community sector to explore how collaboration and innovation can help create a more resilient, competitive, regional economy. 

Designed for decision-makers across the private and public sectors, the conference will focus on the commercial opportunities, risks, and partnerships shaping the future of sustainable growth in the Midlands. 

Through keynote speakers, panel discussions, case studies, and interactive roundtables, delegates will explore topics including: 

• The Future of Sustainable Business & Regional Growth 

• Embedding Social Value into Procurement & Supply Chains 

• Public-Private Partnerships for Inclusive Growth 

• Unlocking Corporate Engagement Through Social Innovation 

The conference will showcase practical examples of how organisations are embedding sustainability and social value into business strategy, procurement, investment, operations, and long-term decision-making — whilst strengthening competitiveness and delivering measurable impact. 

Delegates will leave with: 

• Practical insights and strategies 

• New cross-sector connections and partnership opportunities 

• Real-world case studies and lessons learned 

• A clearer understanding of emerging trends, policy, and investment priorities 

• Inspiration and ideas to support organisational resilience and growth 

As always, the conference will also provide extensive networking opportunities with senior professionals, regional stakeholders, and Sustainability West Midlands members from across the Midlands and beyond. 

Why Attend? 

Whether you are a business leader, sustainability professional, local authority representative, investor, academic institution, or social enterprise, the conference offers a unique opportunity to: 

• Connect with influential regional leaders and partners 
• Explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation
• Learn how organisations are turning sustainability into commercial and social value 
• Position your organisation within the Midlands’ transition to a greener and more inclusive economy 

Attendance & Tickets 

Sustainability West Midlands Members 

• 1 FREE ticket included with standard membership
• Additional tickets: £88 + VAT

Non-Members (+ VAT) 

• Private Sector (Under 250 Employees): £125 
• Private Sector (Over 250 Employees): £250
• Public Sector: £250
• Third Sector: £125
• Universities: £150

Places are limited and the conference sells out each year, so early booking is strongly recommended. 

For enquiries or booking support, please contact: 
enquiries@swm.org.uk 

Prime Sponsorship & Exhibiting

We aim to make our conference support options as flexible as possible, offering opportunities for both prime sponsorship and exhibition. They also included additional free conference tickets depending on the level you choose. Packages will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

To register your interest in sponsoring or exhibiting, please complete this short online form, and we will get back to you to confirm your slot as soon as possible.

The Venue 

To apply for sponsorship or an exhibitor stand, please fill out this form.

The conference will take place at Conference Aston, a purpose-built conference centre and hotel located within the Aston University campus in Birmingham. 

Owned by Aston University, Conference Aston has delivered high-quality conference, hospitality, and accommodation services for over 50 years and is recognised for its strong sustainability credentials. 

Its environmental performance is regularly assessed against recognised industry standards, including: 

• ISO 14001 Environmental Management 
• ISO 50001 Energy Management 
• Green Tourism Gold Award 
• Sustainable Restaurant Association Three-Star Rating 
• TripAdvisor Green Leaders Gold Status 

Located in the heart of Birmingham, the venue provides an ideal setting for collaboration, learning, and networking. 

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