On the 25th November 2025, entrepreneurs, funders, and business leaders from West Oxfordshire and Cherwell gathered for an afternoon of celebration, networking, and opportunity. The event marked a key milestone in a strong year of support delivered on behalf of Enterprise Oxfordshire, with more than 130 new start-ups and 300 established businesses benefiting from local growth programmes.
The celebration highlighted the achievements of the region’s business community, shared future ambitions, and reinforced the strong spirit of enterprise across both districts.
Connection and Inspiration
The event began with a relaxed networking lunch, giving business owners a chance to connect, exchange ideas, and reflect on their journeys. The room was buzzing with energy as participants met peers who had engaged in workshops, mentoring, and other business support programmes throughout the year.
The afternoon featured inspiring success stories, focusing on resilience, creativity, and innovation. From technology start-ups to community enterprises, the presentations reflected the creativity and determination driving local enterprise forward.
Ant Parsons of ALP Synergy Limited and Enterprise Oxfordshire reflected:
“Hosting this celebration has been a real privilege. Over the past year, we’ve seen more than 400 businesses across West Oxfordshire and Cherwell embrace support, back their ideas, and take bold steps forward. Today was about recognising that courage, the partnerships that make it possible, and the exciting future our local enterprise community is building together.”
Partnership and Support
Funded by West Oxfordshire District Council and Cherwell District Council through the Strategic Priorities Fund and delivered on behalf of Enterprise Oxfordshire, the programme shows their shared commitment to local economic growth.
Their support highlights a clear ambition to expand opportunities for start-ups and established businesses, recognising the role of enterprise in strengthening communities.
The Enterprise Oxfordshire Business Team reported key achievements, including higher business confidence, access to expert mentoring, and measurable growth across sectors.
Programme Highlights
| SPF Output / Outcome | Achievements |
|---|---|
| Entrepreneurs supported to become business ready | 132 |
| Businesses receiving non-financial support | 302 |
| Jobs created | 32 |
| New businesses created | 27 |
| Businesses with improved productivity | 30 |
Attendees’ Reflections
Attendees described the day as energising and inspiring. Many found value in hearing real-world stories from fellow entrepreneurs, with networking sessions helping to spark new partnerships and strengthen the local business network.
Highlights from the day can be seen on LinkedIn:
• Zeenah Hicks’ post on networking and business growth
• Gemma Dilworth’s event summary and photos
• Enterprise Oxfordshire’s reflections on the programme’s success
Looking Ahead
The celebration was not just a look back at achievements; it also marked the start of a new chapter of opportunity. As West Oxfordshire and Cherwell continue to support enterprise and innovation, collaboration between councils, support providers, and businesses will remain essential for inclusive economic growth.
Enterprise Oxfordshire will continue to champion local talent, boost business resilience, and encourage sustainable growth, ensuring the region’s entrepreneurial spirit remains stronger than ever.