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We opened just 25 Founding Member spots ahead of the public launch in April — and almost all have now been taken.
Join before 31st March to lock in the £25 per year ‘Founding Member’ rate (normally £50).
➡️ Check out the pre-launch offer www.KentBusinessCommunity.co.uk
Hi {{first_name | Kent Business Community}}
Welcome to Thursday’s edition of the Kent Business Newsletter.
This week’s Kent Business Newsletter has the kind of stories that show Kent business at its best - innovation, ambition and purpose. From a new startup cohort at Discovery Park, to a travel company building social impact into its model, to a former Royal Navy serviceman launching a new venture in Kent, this edition highlights people and businesses making things happen across the county.
➡️ Got a business launch, win or story to share? Send it to [email protected] and we’ll help spread the word - for free!
If you missed previous editions you can catch-up here.
In this issue: Kent Business News | Cyber Advice | Kent Business Events | Kent Business Radio
This Week’s Kent Business News
➡️ Discovery Spark Welcomes Sixth Startup Cohort
Discovery Park has launched the sixth edition of its Discovery Spark accelerator, bringing 11 science and technology startups to its campus in Sandwich. Since 2023, the programme has supported 50 companies and 76 founders, with alumni securing £5.5m in UKRI funding. Startups are selected for the strength of their innovation, the uniqueness of their solution, and the capability of their teams. Over March and April, founders will attend specialist sessions on investor readiness, covering tax, finance, branding and storytelling, before pitching to active investors on 30 April.
This year’s cohort includes three Kent-based firms working on tidal energy, animal-free dairy proteins and graphene composites for energy systems. Others arrive from across the UK, developing antibacterial drugs, RNA therapeutics, Parkinson’s treatments and tools to speed up drug discovery and gene therapy production. The mix reflects the programme’s broad focus on science-led ventures with commercial ambition.
➡️ Kent based ‘Pure One’ Backs Reforestation And Health Research
A Kent travel company is linking holidays with environmental and health causes through two new charity partnerships. PURE ONE has teamed up with global reforestation group Evertreen and a charity focused on inflammatory arthritis awareness and research. The move reflects a wider shift in the travel sector, where firms are expected to show social and environmental responsibility alongside commercial success. Founder Wesley Baker said travel companies have a duty to contribute positively to the planet and society, not just offer experiences.
Through Evertreen, PURE ONE will support tree planting projects aimed at restoring ecosystems and tackling environmental damage. At the same time, it will help raise awareness and back research into inflammatory arthritis, a condition affecting millions worldwide. The company says the partnerships are part of a broader aim to balance adventure with accountability.
➡️ Veteran Launches Laser Engraving Business In Kent
A former Royal Navy serviceman has launched a new personalised gift business in Kent, turning decades of discipline into a craft built on precision. David Bonner, who served more than 25 years in the Navy, has founded BB Laser Engraved Gifts, offering customised keepsakes engraved to last. The range includes pet tags, hip flasks, wedding items, memory boxes and home décor, each made to order with names, dates, photos or messages. Every piece is engraved in the UK, with next-day dispatch available on many products.
David says his time in service shaped his focus on quality and durability. Laser engraving appealed because it creates permanent markings that will not fade or peel. What began as a hobby has become a full business, with plans to expand into corporate gifts, weddings and events across Kent.
Cyber Safety For Kent Businesses
Jason On Cyber
You wouldn’t know if this happened!
Most business owners think they’d spot a cyber attack straight away. That confidence is exactly what gets tested. This isn’t about fear - it’s about awareness. Watch carefully.
Find out more: @jasononcyber is currently on: Youtube, linkedin, Facebook, X, instagram
Did you miss this earlier?
Just 3 Founding Member places remaining!
We opened just 25 Founding Member spots ahead of the public launch in April — and almost all have now been taken.
Join before 31st March to lock in the £25 per year ‘Founding Member’ rate (normally £50).
➡️ Check out the pre-launch offer www.KentBusinessCommunity.co.uk
Below are several business events coming up this week in Kent.
You’ll find the full list at
www.KentBusinessEvents.co.uk
Synergy Networking Events
Various Locations Across Kent
Various locations across Kent
Details:
Synergy Networking Events: Building Meaningful Business Connections Across Kent
Synergy helps businesses across Kent grow through structured, friendly, and effective networking events in Kent. Whether you’re new to networking or an experienced business owner looking for genuine connections, Synergy provides a relaxed environment that delivers real results. You can attend an event with no long-term commitment and experience it for yourself.
Networking Made Simple!
Synergy runs professional networking events across Kent, with every session carefully planned to ensure every attendee gets value. Seating is pre-arranged to help members connect with new people, exchange ideas, and build long-term relationships.
Website: Click here
Simply Business Club
Various Locations Across Kent
Details:
Stepping Out and FSB have come together to create a relaxed, welcoming space for local businesses to connect.
This is your opportunity to make new connections, discover potential collaborators, and access support from the local business community.
Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain fresh perspectives, or simply meet like-minded professionals, this event gives you the chance to step out, get involved, and enjoy real conversations.
The event is free to attend and open to all businesses.
Website: Click here
BoB Connections Business Networking
Various Locations Across Kent
Various Locations
Details:
BoB Connections networking meetings span across Kent, providing an invaluable platform for local businesses to forge connections that are otherwise hard to achieve. Book your spot at a bi-weekly meeting in your town.
Joining BoB Connections opens the door to unparalleled opportunities for your business growth. As a member, you'll gain access to a powerful network of like-minded professionals who are committed to helping each other succeed. Through structured and supportive networking, you'll receive high-quality referrals, expert insights, and practical advice to enhance your business strategies. Our collaborative approach empowers you to elevate your business, making it more profitable, efficient, and successful than ever before.
Let's create connections that matter.
Website: Click here
Wealden Business Group Networking
Tenterden
Brunch & Brew Tenterden
When: 7am - 8.30am Every Wednesday Morning
Location: Brunch & Brew Tenterden
Details:
Come join the Wealden Business Group every Wednesday morning in Tenterden for a hearty breakfast, an interesting presentation and the opportunity to meet local business owners across a range of professions who recognise the importance of making genuine connections.
Wealden Business Group (WBG) is built on trust, integrity, support and friendship, and is different to many other business networking groups in several respects
Website: Click here
Dartford Means Business
Dartford
Dartford Football Club
When: 10am - 12pm on 26th March
Location: Dartford Football Club
Details:
Ready to connect, collaborate, and be inspired? Join us for the Dartford Means Business showcase – a vibrant morning bringing together entrepreneurs, innovators, and local organisations shaping the future of business in Dartford.
Meet and network with a wide range of local businesses, discover new opportunities, and build relationships that can help your organisation grow.
One of the highlights of the morning will be meeting the 10 finalists of the “Pitch Your New Business Idea” competition, all vying for the £2,000 top prize. It’s your chance to see fresh ideas, support emerging talent, and maybe even spot your next partnership.
You’ll also be able to learn more about The Kent Foundation and the support available for young entrepreneurs and growing businesses across the region.
Come along, share ideas, and be part of Dartford’s thriving business community.
Website: Click here
The Indian Dish Networking Event
Tunbridge Wells
Mecure Tunbridge Wells Hotel
When: 5pm - 7.30pm on 26th March
Location: Mecure Tunbridge Wells Hotel
Details:
An evening of high-quality networking with the “The Indian Dish Networking event“, includes a welcome drink and delicious Indian street food from the award-winning The Indian Dish!
What’s in store?
5pm – Complimentary Welcome drink, Arrival and networking
5.30pm-6pm – Welcome by Julia Hussain, Owner of The Indian Dish and Jade Hayman, Events and Sales at Mercure Tunbridge Wells. Followed by the opportunity to introduce your business around the room. Keynote speaker TBA
6.45 – Networking and delicious street food from The Indian Dish
7.30pm – Event close
Important: Tickets are limited and must be purchased by Wednesday, 18th March so make sure you book ASAP!
Don’t miss out on an evening of great food, meaningful connections and inspiring conversations!
Website: Click here
Make It Your Business
Tunbridge Wells
Town Hall Tunbridge Wells
When: 10am - 12.30pm on 27th March
Location: Town Hall Tunbridge Wells
Details:
This isn’t just a nice to have ‘feel-good session’. It’s a business-boosting, mindset-shifting, soul-lifting investment in YOU.
In just 2.5 powerful hours, you’ll walk away with:
✅ Fresh inspiration from women who’ve achieved incredible things – in business AND life
✅ Real-life strategies to help you grow your business (or finally start it!)
✅ Supportive community that gets the juggle of business, family, and ambition
✅ A break from the day-to-day to focus ON your business, not just IN it
✅ New local connections that could lead to clients, collaborations or confidence boosts
Don’t miss this chance to refill your cup, expand your network and leave fired up with ideas, insight and energy.
Website: Click here
Kent Actors Connected
Ashford
Ashford Cinema
When: 6pm - 9pm on 27th March
Location: Ashford Cinema
Details:
You are invited to attend a Kent Actors Networking event hosted at The Ashford Cinema.
This event provides an opportunity for actors across Kent to connect with other like-minded creatives, collaborate on upcoming events, share industry experiences, information and motivation. If you feel you need a little oomph and want to connect more locally, definitely come along!
The evening is open to actors and creatives at all stages of their careers and offers a valuable chance to expand your network, exchange insights, and engage with the local acting community.
Website: Click here
Property Connect
Maidstone
The Herbalist, Maidstone
When: 1.30pm - 4.30pm on 2nd April
Location: The Herbalist, Maidstone
Details:
Property Connect Maidstone Kent’s Premier property networking event!
“Join us in Maidstone Property Connect”. Property Connect is a well established network established over 20 years
Our events encourage genuine interaction, the exchange of information, and the development of both professional and social contacts. Attendees gain insights into industry activity while building new professional acquaintances – without the pressure of formal networking.
We kindly ask that if you bring colleagues or contacts, they are directly involved in the property industry. This ensures the event remains focused on sharing information and services among individuals and groups with a common interest.
Website: Click here
Kent Business Radio Show
On the show this week with Paul Andrews was Neville Gaunt of SDG:ZERO.
SDG:Zero is a platform built to help SMEs turn purpose into progress. They exist to make sustainability practical for everyday businesses. They are building a community-driven ecosystem where organisations can showcase the SDGs they support, connect with like-minded partners, and grow with credibility.
To listen to this week’s show in full visit Kent Business Radio
Ready to Show Up Online with Confidence?
Join us in our Kent studio for a VIP day and leave with up to 3 months of powerful, done-for-you video content.
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{{first_name | Kent Business Community}}, before you go…
➡️ Don’t miss the latest networking events near you - https://www.kentbusinessevents.co.uk
➡️ Do you have news or announcements you’d like to share about your business?
Contact us today - [email protected]
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