Meaningful Places

The Meaningful Business Network is delighted to invite you to the third annual Meaningful Business Summer Conference, taking place in York on Thursday 9 July 2026.

This year’s theme, “Meaningful Places,” explores how businesses, public institutions, and communities can work together to create stronger, more inclusive, and socially impactful local economies.

As conversations around social value, inclusive growth, community wealth building, and sustainable economic development continue to evolve, this conference will bring together leaders and practitioners from across sectors to exchange ideas, share evidence, and build practical collaborations for change.

Topics will include:

• Meaningful economic development and community wealth building
• The role of anchor institutions in shaping local economies
• Inclusive growth and reducing inequality
• Good cities, regional resilience, and socio-economic wellbeing
• The future of public procurement and social value
• Cross-sector collaboration for meaningful places

This event is designed for:

• Business leaders and SMEs
• Public sector professionals
• Local authorities and policymakers
• Universities and educators
• Social enterprises and charities
• Procurement and economic development professionals
• Community organisations and civic leaders