Yesterday (21st Feb), I had the absolute privilege of attending the Theo Paphitis Small Business Sunday (#SBS) Winners’ Event at the ICC in Birmingham and what an incredible experience it was! As a proud SBS winner with Charley’s Wild World, I was excited to be surrounded by some of the most passionate and innovative small business owners in the UK.

The Energy of the SBS Community

Walking into the venue, the atmosphere was electric. Hundreds of entrepreneurs, all driven by their dedication to their businesses, filled the space with enthusiasm and ambition. It was truly inspiring to meet and network with fellow winners, each with their own unique journey and success stories. From handmade crafts to cutting-edge tech solutions, the diversity of businesses showcased the strength and creativity of the small business community.

Insights from Industry Experts

One of the biggest highlights of the event was the opportunity to hear from Theo Paphitis himself, a champion of small businesses and an incredible mentor to so many. His words of encouragement and wisdom were invaluable, reminding us all of the power of resilience, adaptability and innovation.

Beyond Theo, there were insightful talks from business experts across various industries, my favourite was by Scamp & Dude owner & founder Jo Tutchener Sharp, her story was truly inspirational.

Unmatched Networking Opportunities

Perhaps the most rewarding part of the day was the chance to connect with other like-minded business owners. The SBS community is truly special – it’s not just about winning an award but about becoming part of a supportive network that helps each other grow. Sharing experiences, learning from others successes and challenges and discussing potential collaborations made the event invaluable.

Looking to the Future

Being an SBS winner has already opened so many doors for Charley’s Wild World and this event reaffirmed just how important it is to keep pushing forward. The insights gained, connections made  and motivation ignited will undoubtedly shape the future of my business.

A huge thank you to Theo Paphitis and the entire SBS team for putting together such an inspiring and impactful event. If you're a small business owner and haven’t yet applied for #SBS, I can’t recommend it enough. The opportunities, support, and sense of community are simply unparalleled!

Here’s to another year of growth, collaboration and small business success!

February 22, 2025 — Melissa McQuade