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Welcome to the latest edition of the SVBS newsletter.
This week, we're focusing on International Trade Week (ITW), the new Henley Banking Hub and £1,000 grants for small businesses.
We're also highlighting GOV.UK support and guidance for businesses, planning your Bonfire Night celebrations via the Southern Oxfordshire website, UKAEA's Large Employer of the Year award, South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils' Wellbeing & Employment Fair, and The Shape of Growth event.
Plus, follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn to be kept up-to-date in between our newsletters.
There are lots more opportunities, events and resources to get stuck into this week, but as always, if you'd like to suggest content for the SVBS newsletter, please get in touch with us.
- South and Vale's Economic Development team
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International Trade Week (ITW) 2026Taking place from 9 to 13 November, International Trade Week (ITW) will bring together companies of all sizes to explore new opportunities for growth through exporting and international trade. The event features a packed programme of workshops, webinars, conferences and one-to-one advice sessions designed to help businesses gain practical insights, expert guidance and valuable connections. Further details can be found via the International Trade Week website.
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New Henley Banking Hub
Cash Access UK has opened the Henley Banking Hub in a temporary home located in Henley Library. Customers of all major banks can visit any weekday between 9am - 5pm to carry out regular cash transactions, including cash withdrawals and deposits as well as checking balances or paying bills. These services are available to business customers too. The hub offers a community banker service where customers can talk to their own bank in a private space on the day their bank is in the hub - Mondays (Barclays), Wednesdays (Lloyds, Halifax and Bank of Scotland) and Thursdays (NatWest). Cllr Leigh Rawlins, Cabinet Member for Economic Development at South Oxfordshire District Council said: "Over recent years we have seen access to banking facilities disappear from our high streets as more people go online. However, for many residents and businesses having this local in person access is so important and I'm really pleased we will now have a banking hub in Henley Library. I'd like to thank Henley Town Council, Cash Access UK, Freddie Van Mierlo MP and other partners for working hard to make this happen." Visit the Cash Access UK website for more information.
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£1,000 grants for small businesses Small businesses can apply for a £1,000 grant through the Powering Local Businesses programme from Enterprise Nation and EDF Small Business, supported by Square. A total of 25 grants are available to help businesses invest in practical improvements that strengthen operations and support future growth. The funding can be used for a range of business upgrades, including new software, improved payment systems, sustainable improvements, equipment purchases or specialist consultancy support. Alongside funding opportunities, the campaign also offers free access to events, podcasts, expert advice and business resources, providing practical support for businesses looking to reduce costs, improve efficiency and grow with confidence. Learn more and apply via the Enterprise Nation website.
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GOV.UK support and guidance for businesses
The GOV.UK Business and Self-Employed hub provides a wide range of free guidance, tools and resources for businesses at every stage of their journey. Whether you're starting a new venture, employing staff, managing taxes or planning for growth, the platform brings together key information and support in one place. Businesses can access practical advice on topics including company registration, tax returns, exporting, innovation, cyber security, finance, legal compliance and recruitment. The site also offers sector-specific guidance for industries such as manufacturing, hospitality, retail, life sciences, construction and the space sector. Visit the GOV.UK website to get started.
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Bonfire Night is set to light up Southern Oxfordshire, with a fantastic selection of family-friendly fireworks events taking place across the region. From traditional bonfires and spectacular firework displays to funfairs and food stalls, there are plenty of opportunities to wrap up warm and enjoy the festivities. Events are being held in Abingdon, Aston Tirrold, Chinnor, Grove, Henley and Wallingford, offering something for everyone! Be sure to check event details on our Southern Oxfordshire website!
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UKAEA wins Large Employer of the Year awardUKAEA has been recognised for its commitment to developing future talent after being named Large Employer of the Year at the 2026 Engineering Talent Awards. The organisation was praised for its investment in skills, training and career development, helping to build the next generation workforce needed to support the UK’s growing fusion energy sector. Graduates on UKAEA’s scheme shared positive feedback about their experiences, highlighting the organisation’s supportive environment and the valuable opportunities it provides for professional development, career progression and day-to-day learning. Read the story in full via the UKAEA website.
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Wellbeing & Employment FairBe Together is a programme led by South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils that supports a range of community-led initiatives across the districts, working in partnership with local organisations. In collaboration with Healthy Didcot, the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) and local partners, the team are hosting a free event for anyone facing health barriers, those wanting support into employment, training and wellbeing opportunities. Monday 16 November | 10am - 2pmDistrict Community Centre, Didcot (OX11 6GR)So far, 28 organisations have signed up to the event. From 1pm - 2pm there will be a quiet hour for attendees who may benefit from a quieter setting. Further information can be found on the council's website.
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Autumn Event 2026 - The Shape of Growth Businesses across Oxfordshire are invited to attend The Shape of Growth, taking place at the Oxford Centre for Innovation. The session will examine different approaches to business growth, with a focus on how innovative SMEs can scale successfully while supporting inclusive and sustainable economic development.Monday 16 November | 6pm - 9pm Oxford Centre for Innovation
The event will feature insights from Emma Coles of the Oxfordshire Inclusive Economy Partnership (OIEP), Ryan Johnson from the NatWest Accelerator Oxford and Richard Rowley of Agile Collective. Discussions will cover the benefits and challenges of different growth models, what inclusive growth means in practice, and how businesses can choose the approach that best fits their ambitions. Attendees will also have the opportunity to network with fellow business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Register for your free place via Eventbrite.
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Boost your business success – stay connected with us via LinkedIn!
Are you ready to take your business to the next level? We’re here to provide the tools, insights and resources you need to succeed.
Follow our social media channels for:
- The latest business news
- Important events
- Practical advice and guidance
- Opportunities for businesses.
Follow us on our new LinkedIn page to be kept up-to-date.
Whether you’re looking for inspiration, knowledge or just a little extra motivation, we’ve got you covered. We’re here to help your business thrive - one post at a time!
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