Clacks Business Week returned on 14th March to enthusiastic support from the local business community. It’s the first time the event has been held since the start of the pandemic and over 350 people attended 19 events across the week. Events were held both in person at four Clacks venues, and online as the event adopted a blended model.
The Week was sponsored by Handelsbanken and run by Ceteris and event partner Forth Valley Chamber of Commerce. Clacks Council Leader Councillor Ellen Forsen opened the event with a welcome speech to business leaders at Alloa Business Centre. The overall theme of the Week was ‘Future Fit’, with workshops, networking events and webinars focussing on three key areas: innovation, digital business, and the green economy. In keeping with those themes, Clacks Business Week went digital with a brand-new app to browse and book events. Created by ScotApps, this was a very simple and easy app to use, it was well received by users and allowed a more sustainable approach to managing events and getting information to customers.
Raising much needed funds raised for Scottish Autism
Clacks Business Week ended with the return of its charity lunch, held at Inglewood House & Spa. Again, it is the first time this event has taken place since the start of the pandemic. The event raised an incredible £1,730 for charity partner Scottish Autism and shows how much the contributions of face-to-face fundraising events have been missed by charities.
Dorry McLaughlin, Chief Executive of Scottish Autism said: “Thanks to everyone who joined us at Clackmannanshire Business Week charity lunch for their amazing generosity. The fantastic amount raised will help us to provide vital services to support autistic people and their families in Scotland. A big thank you to all the businesses who donated a prize and to Ceteris and Inglewood House & Spa for organising this fantastic event.”
Clacks Business Week will also make donations to local Clackmannanshire charities Communities House and The Wee County’s Men’s Shed.
Maggie Gorman, Business Gateway and Development Director at Ceteris, said: “We’re delighted with the support shown for Clacks Business Week.
“It’s been a long two years since the last one. Our new blended approach to events worked really well, with everyone being able to take part even if they were still unable to attend events in person. The launch of our new app was also well received and is part of our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint. However, technology is no replacement for human connection, and it was amazing to see and reconnect community in person with so many of the Clackmannanshire business over the course of the week.
“I’m also delighted with the amount raised for charity. It’s been a tough time for charities, so to raise such a large amount for Scottish Autism is incredible!”