Express & Star

Crowe to host major conference in Oldbury aimed at driving innovation

National audit, tax, advisory, and consulting firm Crowe is to host a significant conference focused on 'driving innovation' in the Midlands.

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The event, scheduled for Thursday May 8 at Crowe's Midlands office in Oldbury, will see West Midlands Deputy Mayor Sharon Thompson deliver a keynote address.

Organised in partnership with the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) and the Black Country Chamber of Commerce, the conference aims to explore how innovation can boost commercial growth, investment, and resilience in the region. 

More than 80 representatives from Midlands businesses have registered to attend.

The event, running from 9:30am to 1pm, will include expert panels with speakers from Innovate UK Business Growth, Aston University, Birmingham City University, and leading regional businesses. 

Johnathan Dudley of Crowe
Johnathan Dudley of Crowe

Discussions will centre on practical strategies for scaling operations, securing funding, and building impactful partnerships. 

Crowe partner Johnathan Dudley, the firm’s national head of manufacturing who is based at Black Country House, said: “Driving Innovation will bring together senior figures from business, academia, and local government to discuss practical strategies for scaling operations, unlocking funding, and forging partnerships that deliver impact.

“Discussions will focus on the real-world benefits of initiatives such as the Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) programme and innovation support delivered through national and regional agencies.”

The conference will conclude with a keynote address from West Midlands' Mayor Richard Parker, who will outline his vision for innovation-led growth and the role businesses will play in driving economic transformation. 

GBCC director of external affairs Raj Kandola said: "Innovation is not just about new technology—it’s about creating better ways of working, solving real-world challenges, and driving sustainable growth.

“This event will bring together the people and insights businesses need to take their next steps. Whether you’re a start-up or an established business, this is a chance to connect, collaborate and access the tools that make innovation possible."

Registration for the event is available on the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce website.

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