Doncaster, What’s Next? Business Conference 2026

Doncaster, What’s Next? Business Conference is returning to the Legacy Centre next Wednesday, to discuss the current economic climate for businesses. Hosted by the Doncaster Chamber, forward-thinking businesses, leaders, and decision-makers will unite to shape the future of our local economy.

In recent months, the economic landscape has remained challenging, with businesses navigating a period of stagnation and uncertainty. Rising operational costs, have placed continued pressure on margins, while wider economic growth has remained subdued. At the same time, ongoing policy changes and shifting market conditions have made long-term planning more difficult for many organisations.

Despite these challenges, businesses across the region have shown resilience, continuing to innovate, adapt, and seek opportunities for growth in an increasingly complex environment. This conference is an opportunity for like-minded individuals to come together to express what has worked and what is next for business.

With local policy leaders in attendance, this event provides Doncaster’s businesses with a vital opportunity to share their real-world experiences of operating in an economic climate heavily shaped by policy decisions that often overlook their impact on business.

Dan Fell MBE, Chief Executive of the Doncaster Chamber, comments, “Doncaster has the potential to lead, not lag behind, but businesses are being pushed to their limits. Rising costs, policy pressures, and an increasingly difficult operating environment have left many employers questioning their future. I regularly hear from entrepreneurs who have poured everything into their businesses, and too often, they feel the system is working against them.”

The Doncaster Chamber have crafted 3 insightful panel discussions based on feedback heard from businesses in the region, unpacking What’s Next for Workforce, Investment & Trade and Digital Doncaster. Attendees also have an opportunity to engage with local council leaders, in a conversation-style panel with Mayor of Doncaster, Ros Jones and Chief Executive of Doncaster Council, Damian Allen. Alongside 4 powerful keynote speakers, who will share challenges and opportunities they have faced and provide insight into the current political landscape.

Sponsored by DN Colleges Group, ConnectUs and Advance Doncaster, their commitment to supporting and empowering local businesses is reinforced. DN Colleges group are continuously engaging with local businesses, to ensure that the future workforce is ready for the skills they will need to bring growth to Doncaster. ConnectUs are a leading Managed Services Provider, with 20 years of experience in listening to business needs and providing utilising technology to support them. Advance Doncaster provide multiple business support schemes as part of Doncaster Council.