Dear All,

After another hugely busy month, the pace of events and activities really accelerates into the summer. If you haven’t already, then please book for next week’s EASI final on Tuesday 27^th. There are five exciting finalists, the Needlemakers’ Award, and representatives from across the Livery - all generously hosted by Freeman Tony Matharu at Tower Suites.

Tomorrow’s Confidence Code event with the City Livery is now SOLD OUT – congratulations (and best of luck) to our DEI Committee and others who have worked so hard in support of the Livery Committee on this.

Next up is the Second Wednesday drinks in June – this is especially relevant for any skiers in the Company - swiftly followed by evening racing at Windsor on 16^th June. I remember the first time I went and that was back in the 1980’s! They are always fun especially so going by river, so book now.

The big thing on the horizon is the Summer Banquet at Mansion House on 14^th July. We are busy gearing up for this and I hope that you have invited your guests and booked your tickets. Early booking is essential, as the Presentation of Letters Patent is making this very popular. Be warned there’s only room for about a third of the people who will be there on the evening so book early. You and your guests will also be able to see a Clothing of new Liverymen Entrepreneurs, and welcome new Freemen too.

I’ve attached the Sponsors’ Brochure, and below this message is a suggestion of a teaser for your entrepreneurial contacts. Please let me know of anyone who might be interested in being involved - especially other entrepreneurs or venture capital companies. It will be a great education and example of Livery at its best.

The Master’s Weekend away was a great success. Highlights included presentations from Bristol University Business School, some very interesting (and delicious) wines in Avery’s cellars and a visit to Aerospace Bristol where we saw the last Concorde to fly.

The Defence Academy invited a small group of us to the Academy in Shrivenham in Wiltshire earlier this month, too. We were delighted to be joined by the Lady Mayoress and had a very productive day, which included meeting the winners of the 2024 Entrepreneurs’ Prize. We started work on planning a seminar, to be hosted jointly by the Entrepreneurs and the Educators in the Autumn at Mansion House. This will consider the challenges and opportunities of AI for innovation and education in a defence context.

Please let me or the Clerk know if you can help with the Summer Banquet, especially if you want more details about the sponsorship or VIP packages. We really want to make this a special event not only for the Company, but also for entrepreneurs who are not yet members.

Lastly – there is still time to get new members into the pipeline to be admitted in July. If you know of someone who would be a good fit, please let the Clerk know, or put them in touch with Shernaz directly!

Dare, Create, Succeed

Yours

James

 

 

 

Summer Banquet Invitation

Celebration of Livery Promotion

Mansion House
14^th July

Join us for a truly historic occasion: the Summer Banquet of the Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs, taking place on Monday, 14th July at Mansion House. This evening marks the culmination of our journey to full Livery status - a significant milestone for entrepreneurs in the City of London and beyond.

The Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs brings together business founders who have built and led successful ventures. Our motto, Dare, Create, Succeed, reflects our mission to champion entrepreneurship, foster a supportive community, and give back through education and charitable initiatives.

At the heart of the evening is a rare and prestigious ceremony: the formal presentation of our Letters Patent, the document that officially constitutes us as a Livery Company of the City of London. The ceremony, attended by City Aldermen and dignitaries, is steeped in tradition and marks our official recognition within the City’s centuries-old framework of professional and trade guilds.

The celebrations begin with a reception at Mansion House, where you’ll mingle with City leaders, fellow entrepreneurs, and distinguished guests. You’ll witness a Freedom Ceremony, where new members are welcomed, and a Clothing Ceremony, which recognises senior members - both rich in City tradition and symbolism. Drinks and conversation follow, leading into a four-course banquet in the magnificent Egyptian Hall. Expect inspiring speeches, awards, and music, all in the best traditions of City dining.

Why should you attend? The Summer Banquet is the perfect opportunity to experience the unique fellowship and heritage of the Entrepreneurs’ Company, connect with other business owners, and learn more about what membership offers. As a member, you’ll join a select network of successful entrepreneurs all of whom share the desire to make a real impact by supporting business education and mentoring the next generation.

If you’re passionate about entrepreneurship and want to be part of a thriving, charitable, and prestigious community, we encourage you to join us for this landmark. Email me if you want to know more or want to come. It will be a special and memorable evening!