MP says Basingstoke business week can 'sell the town'
Businesses large and small are taking part in a week of special events
A senior government representative and leaders from AWE, Farnborough Airport and the University of Reading are among the speakers confirmed for Basingstoke Business Week 2026.
Running from Monday 9 to Friday 13 November with the theme Skills for the Future, the week’s speakers cover industries from defence and aviation to manufacturing, artificial intelligence and education.
Speakers range from executives at some of the region’s largest enterprises, to leaders at local Basingstoke businesses. Among the largest firms represented are AWE, a leading defence and technology company, and Farnborough Airport, a major private airport located in Hampshire. Smaller firms and organisations on the programme include manufacturer LG Motion, consultancies Carbon Footprint and QFactorial, and Brevity Marketing.
Confirmed speakers also include representatives from major regional educational institutions, the business community, and charities. Leaders from the University of Reading and the Basingstoke College of Technology will feature throughout the week, hosting and speaking at events focused on green innovation, closing the skills gap, and connecting students with construction sector employers. Ross McNally, CEO of the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, and current and former leaders from Inclusion Education and the Alliance for Hampshire Jobs are also scheduled to speak throughout the week.
The senior government representative will join local business, community, and charity leaders at Thursday’s flagship Basingstoke Skills Summit, which will also feature remarks from Luke Murphy MP and Cllr Paul Harvey, Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.
Speakers will also participate in a packed programme throughout the week, featuring networking, practical workshops and careers support for young people. The schedule will offer chances for business leaders, employees, and job seekers to connect, upskill and innovate, and share in Basingstoke’s growth.
Exciting
Luke Murphy, MP for Basingstoke, said:
“This line-up brings together some of the region’s biggest employers and many of our most exciting local firms, all in one week. Whether you’re running a business, starting one or looking for your next job, it’s a brilliant chance to hear directly from the people growing Basingstoke’s economy. I’m grateful to all our incredible speakers, and I’d encourage everyone to come along to hear from them.”
Amazing
Cllr Paul Harvey, Leader of Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council, said:
"Our line up of speakers and panelists is second to none. We have a really amazing team to promote our town and show off the best practice going on in Basingstoke. Showcasing this talent and offering advice, support and setting the direction for our future is a big part of the week. So a big thank you to everyone taking part."
Exceptional
Lorraine Heath, Principal of Basingstoke College of Technology, said:
"We are thrilled to unveil an exceptional lineup of speakers and panelists for this year’s Basingstoke Business Week. Bringing together such a diverse range of local leaders, industry pioneers and educational experts creates a powerful platform for real conversations. At BCoT, we know sustainable economic growth depends on strong collaboration between education and business. I look forward to hearing the key insights and fresh perspectives our speakers will bring as we work together to equip our region’s future workforce."
Growth
Barry Smith, Chair, Basingstoke & North Hampshire, Hampshire Chamber of Commerce, said:
"The skills agenda isn't just about recruitment, it's about growth. The organisations that thrive over the next decade will be the ones investing now in their people, their technology and their thinking."
Details
The full programme is available at https://www.destinationbasingstoke.co.uk/business-week-2026/.