Mark Jones was editor of The Gazette for 13 years from 2002 to 2015. He has worked in Basingstoke in various roles for nearly 30 years, and is the founder of Mr Blue Sky Consultancy and the values-led #StrongerTogetherForum.
WHEN it comes to business, Basingstoke is definitely a can-do place that delivers great outcomes.
The town and borough is the economic powerhouse of north Hampshire.
In a few weeks, businesses will have the opportunity to showcase, celebrate, engage and contribute at the second annual Basingstoke Business Week.
As the founder of the thriving #StrongerTogetherForum, I’m delighted to be part of the steering group organising and delivering the week of events.
The breadth of representation on the group speaks volumes about how the Basingstoke business ecosystem is a thriving entity where we are stronger together when we pull together.
The key focus of this year’s week of events from November 9 to 13 is Skills for the Future, and the range of events on offer will deliver informative and inspirational workshops, engaging panel sessions, and networking opportunities where connections can be made and great conversations can take place.
Whether you're a start-up, sole trader, growing business or established employer, there's something for everyone.
I'm looking forward to taking part in a fireside chat with #STF member Chris Cooper - the Sherlock Holmes of Basingstoke when it comes to cybersecurity expertise - and AI expert Matt Neal on Wednesday, November 11 at Arena Offices, Basingstoke.
Places are already filling up fast so please do not snooze and lose if you want to get the inside track on cybersecurity and AI.
I'm also looking forward to chairing a panel at the Skills Summit event being organised by the team from Basingstoke MP Luke Murphy's Office on Thursday, November 12.
Read more
-
New three-floor bar with country-themed area to open in Top of Town
-
'Very heartbreaking' - Restaurant says goodbye to community after almost seven years
This is a must-attend morning at Apollo Hotel Basingstoke that will be interactive, engaging, informative and will deliver great takeaways.
Two other particular highlights for me during the week will be supporting Better Business for Good (BBfG) founder and #STF member Kaia Vincent at Hampshire Chamber of Commerce’s Unlocking Hampshire’s Green Potential event, and then celebrating the borough's brilliant BBfG verified businesses at the BBfG Awards being organised by Kaia on Tuesday, November 10.
To find out more about Basingstoke Business Week 2026, and to book a place on the various events, please go to www.destinationbasingstoke.co.uk/business-week-2026/
Share