About us

Who we are

Buckinghamshire Business First: more than just a support network

We are a dynamic, business-led community that looks out for the best interests of both new ventures and established enterprises across Buckinghamshire.

By getting involved, you become part of something bigger.

Since our inception in 2011, when 10 local entrepreneurs and business leaders joined forces to encourage business growth in Buckinghamshire, our ‘doing-it-for-ourselves’ mentality has supported and cultivated a thriving business community of over 15,000 members – and growing.

Join and get involved with thousands of businesses benefiting from our collaborative spirit, extensive network, access to funding opportunities, strategic advice, and opportunities for growth.

Get involved. Join our community. Invest in your business.

What we do

Running a business is tough. With so many agencies, associations and federations regulating and advising you, it’s not always clear where to find help.

That’s where we come in.

As the central information and support hub for all businesses in Buckinghamshire,  advising, referring and bringing people together.

Our teams of experienced business advisers, supported by our members, partners and local authorities, are interested in your business and provide ongoing, long-term support and services.

Unlock a wealth of expertise from a community that transcends conventional business support. It's not merely about assistance; it's about joining a collaborative force that propels your business to new heights. 

Because with Buckinghamshire Business First at your side, your team just got a whole lot bigger.

Get involved. Join our community. Invest in your business.

 


 

Useful downloads

Buckinghamshire Business First Group Manifesto
Download here (PDF)

Annual Report
Download here (PDF)

Examples of how we make a difference in Buckinghamshire
Read our collection of inspiring stories of business support.

Previous Annual Reports
Buckinghamshire Business First Annual Report 2022/23
Buckinghamshire Business First Annual Report 2021/22
Buckinghamshire Business First Annual Report 2020/21

Accreditations and commitments

We are proud of the accreditations we have worked hard to be awarded over the years. Take a look at our credentials here.

“We joined Buckinghamshire Business First back in 2021 and it’s one of the best decisions we made! The increased knowledge and confidence within our staff and the change in some of our best practices have been invaluable.”

- Steve McWhirter, Foam Engineers Ltd

How we do it

Given life in 2011 by 10 local entrepreneurs and business leaders, Buckinghamshire Business First is the perfect example of what’s possible when businesses come together.

“Working with the team at Buckinghamshire Business First was a pleasure. They really champion businesses of all shapes and sizes.”

- Katy Martin, McGrumpy & Snuffles

Our business Ambassadors

We would like to say a huge ‘Thank You’ to our Ambassador Members who are making such a positive contribution to our local economy.

Michael Garvey MBE

Michael Garvey MBE

Managing Director, Chandler Garvey & Chairman, Buckinghamshire Business First
Philippa Batting

Philippa Batting

Chief Executive Officer, Buckinghamshire Business First & Ngage Solutions
Alex Pratt, OBE

Alex Pratt, OBE

Owner, Serious Brands
Hiren Gandhi

Hiren Gandhi

Partner, Blaser Mills
See all Ambassadors

Meet the team

Philippa Batting

Philippa Batting

Chief Executive Officer

Heather Dean

Heather Dean

Head of Skills and Business Support

Lynsey Dunn

Lynsey Dunn

Head of Marketing,
Communications and Events

Sarah Randall

Sarah Randall

Head of Operations and MI Systems

Meet the team

“I have found Buckinghamshire Business First to be very accessible and easy to deal with. Communication was fantastic, they are very easy to work with and genuinely want to help our business.”

- Mark Baruch, Siyan

Our partnerships

HM GovernmentHM Government
Buckinghamshire Council
Ngage
View all our partners