Collaboration between the public, private and voluntary sectors was the focus of the latest BW3 Wythenshawe Business Gateway.
The March event welcomed businesses, entrepreneurs and civic partners to explore how closer partnership working can support economic growth, skills development and community impact in Wythenshawe, alongside updates on BW3’s work to connect business with opportunity.
The event was held at the headquarters of Endress + Hauser, the global measurement technology firm headquartered in Wythenshawe, providing a fitting backdrop for conversations about innovation, place‑based growth and long‑term investment in the local area.
The keynote address was delivered by Tom Stannard, Chief Executive of Manchester City Council, who shared reflections on the city’s
strategic priorities and how they connect directly to neighbourhoods such as Wythenshawe. Tom spoke about the importance of collaboration between the public sector, business and communities in driving inclusive growth, supporting skills development and ensuring regeneration delivers long‑term benefits for local people.
Tom Stannard leads one of the UK’s largest local authorities and has extensive experience in public service, working closely with civic, business and community partners across the city region. In his role, he focuses on economic growth, tackling inequalities and championing inclusive development across Manchester.
The evening also featured a Q&A conversation with Eamonn O’Neal OBE, BW3 Honorary President, led by BW3 Chair Adam Jupp. Eamonn shared his perspective on the value of local business engagement, mentoring and volunteering, and the role businesses can play in supporting young people and strengthening communities.
A Wythenshawe native, Eamonn O’Neal is a broadcaster and charity leader with a career spanning BBC Radio Manchester, Granada, and the Manchester Evening News. Alongside his media work, he has played a significant role in the charitable sector, supporting organisations including St Ann’s Hospice, Prevent Breast Cancer and The Dianne Oxberry Trust. He was awarded an OBE for services to charitable causes and people with disabilities.Alongside the speaker sessions, the Wythenshawe Business Gateway provided space for informal networking, enabling local organisations to make new connections, share good practice and explore opportunities to get involved in BW3 initiatives.
Guest also heard about a special trip hosted by Endress + Hauser, during which a group of pupils from St Paul’s RC High School were taken on a work experience visit to Switzerland, which coincided with the Women’s European Championships.
BW3’s Wythenshawe Business Gateway events are held regularly throughout the year and aim to bring businesses together with community leaders and decision‑makers, strengthening links between economic growth and local social impact.
BW3 will be hosting further Business Gateway events later in the year, continuing to focus on regeneration, skills, employment and community engagement across Wythenshawe.To be kept up to date about future Wythenshawe Business Gateway Events please follow our Eventbrite page – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/business-working-with-wythenshawe-12939590501