Friday 11 September 2026
Venue: University of Chichester
A major new annual event for the business community within Chichester and across the region – from ambitious start-ups to established businesses looking to evolve. Inspired by the back-to-school season, when people are back in the room, plans are taking shape and priorities sharpen again.
A Full Day of Business Growth
A strong mix of insight, action and connection to help you regain momentum. Back to Business is hosted by University of Chichester and runs from 8:30am to 5:00pm on Friday 11 September 2026. Packed with content, it will help prepare Sussex businesses of all sizes for growth and stability.
Headline Speaker
Alex Polizzi
Hotel Inspector | Entrepreneur | Business Turnaround Expert
Known to millions as The Hotel Inspector, Alex Polizzi is one of the UK's most respected business voices. With decades of hands-on experience transforming struggling hospitality businesses into thriving enterprises, Alex brings sharp commercial insight, refreshing honesty, and real-world expertise to every stage she steps onto.
Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear Alex speak live – and to take away lessons you can apply directly to your own business!
Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear Alex speak live – and to take away lessons you can apply directly to your own business!
Panel discussions
Big-picture thinking on the issues that matter most
Practical workshops
Over 12 hands-on workshops in 4 Growth Zones to help you get back into gear
Exhibitions & networking
Useful conversations, valuable connections and new ideas to take forward
The After Party
An evening celebration to mark the start of the new business season
6 Growth Zones
One day, hundreds of ideas. Plan your day and choose the content that matters most to your business.
Strategy
Scaling, funding and innovation
Practical frameworks to sharpen your long-term direction, access capital, and work on your business, not just in it.
People
Talent, leadership
Attracting, developing and retaining great people, and building a high-performance culture that lasts.
Reach
Marketing, digital and AI
Tools and tactics you need to win more customers, master digital channels, and stay ahead of the competition.
Wellbeing and Culture
Looking after you, looking after your people
Creating an environment where people can thrive, connect, and perform at their best.
BizTech
The technological advantage
Making sense of and embracing current and emerging technologies in the world of business.
Sustainability
Sustainability and resilience
Future-proofing your business, managing risk, embedding environmental and ethical responsibility.
Get involved
Tickets and Programme
Early Bird Offer!
(until 30 June or while stocks last)
CCCI Member £105 £95
Non Member £125 £115
Back to Business is more than an event it’s an Experience!
Here’s what to expect on the day – included in your ticket price:
- Registration with Tea/Coffee and pastries
- Key Note Speaker: Alex Polizzi ( The Hotel Inspector)
- Growth Zone workshops covering:
Strategy, People, Sustainability, Reach, Biz Tech, Wellbeing & Culture (Delegates can attend 2-3 workshops) - Networking Opportunities
- 2 Course Lunch
- Panel Discussions
- End of Day Reception
Sponsorship opportunities
There are many options to support the event and raise your business profile, from branded cups to full event sponsorship.
Want to exhibit?
Stands will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Click below for information on booking your exhibition stand.
FAQs
Open to organisations of all sizes, from start-ups and SMEs to larger businesses and institutions, across Sussex.
Yes. Places are limited, so advance booking is recommended.
Yes. Lunch is included in your ticket.
Yes. You can design your day around the sessions most relevant to you.
Yes. Your ticket includes admission to The After Party.
Back to Business is presented by Chichester Chamber of Commerce, with Chichester District Council as headline sponsor. It is hosted and sponsored by the University of Chichester.
Brought to you by
Headline Sponsor
Hosted by
