BUSINESSES from across Wychavon came together for a lively and informative business breakfast at Pershore’s Civic Centre on Wednesday.
More than 80 representatives from local companies, community organisations and support partners gathered to hear about the district’s plans for growth, investment and support over the coming years.
The event provided an opportunity for attendees to learn more about Wychavon’s upcoming growth programme, which will see £1.74million invested between April 2026 and March 2028.
Business leaders and owners. s
The programme will focus on strengthening the economies of Broadway, Droitwich, Evesham and Pershore, supporting rural enterprises, boosting hospitality and tourism, attracting inward investment and expanding skills and apprenticeship opportunities.
Businesses also heard about the Wychavon Growth Fund, which will offer grants covering half the cost of eligible projects, with up to £2,000 available for start‑ups and up to £15,000 for micro and SME businesses.
The fund is designed to help companies increase turnover, create jobs and attract more visitors to the district.
Speakers shared the impact of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Rural England Prosperity Fund, which together have delivered £8million of investment over the last four years.
This support has helped 847 businesses, created 100 jobs, enabled training for more than 1,200 people and supported 120 apprenticeships.
Attendees were also briefed on upcoming changes to business rates from April 2026, including the reassessment of all rateable values, the continuation of retail, hospitality and leisure relief, and transitional support for those facing significant increases.
Additional reductions for pubs and live music venues and new multiplier bands were also outlined.
Looking ahead to 2026/27, the council confirmed new funding for community groups, support for carbon reduction and biodiversity initiatives, and the creation of a £5million We Are Wychavon Fund to provide financial support and advice to residents and businesses.
Alongside the presentations, guests enjoyed a complimentary breakfast and chance to network with fellow business owners, Growth Hub advisers and apprenticeship specialists.
The atmosphere throughout the morning was positive, energetic and full of constructive conversation, with many attendees commenting on the value of being able to connect with others facing similar challenges and opportunities.
Council leader Richard Morris, executive board member for economic growth and tourism, said: “It was fantastic to see so many businesses in the room this morning, all eager to learn, share ideas and look ahead together.
“Wychavon isn’t perfect, but we strive to always do better, and events like this show just how committed we are to supporting our business community. The enthusiasm and optimism in the room today were genuinely inspiring.”
Businesses across the district that would like to explore what support is available, including guidance on apprenticeships, access to funding, help navigating business rates or advice on growing their organisation, are encouraged to get in touch with Wychavon’s Business Support team.
Officers can provide tailored information, signpost to relevant programmes and connect businesses with specialist partners who can help them take their next steps.
