Unlock business funding and growth in May
- Andrea Stephenson
- May 1
- 3 min read

If your business is based on the Drum Industrial Estate or nearby, don’t miss the next Drum Business Park Network event on Thursday 15 May 2025. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about new funding opportunities, hear local success stories, and build valuable connections with other businesses in the area.
Held at Coop Logistics in Chester-le-Street, this free networking event is part of a growing initiative to bring local businesses together, share knowledge, and support one another. Whether you’re a business owner, entrepreneur, or part of a growing team, you're warmly welcome.
What to Expect: Business Insights and Peer Networking
The morning begins with a warm welcome and a hearty breakfast:
08.30 – Breakfast and Networking
Start the day with a bacon or veggie sandwich while you mingle with fellow local businesses. Don’t worry if you’re running late – just arrive when you can.
09.00 – Business Growth Update
Stuart Armstrong, Business Engagement Officer at Business Durham, will deliver an update on the Durham Business Growth Fund, outlining funding opportunities and what’s on the horizon for the region’s business support.
09.15 – Guest Speaker: Talentheads
We’re joined by Talentheads, experts in helping businesses grow through strategic recruitment and people development. Discover how to plan for sustainable success.
09.30 – 10.30 – B2B Networking
The final hour is dedicated to business-to-business networking – a chance to meet new contacts, explore collaboration, and share your business story.
Why You Should Attend the Drum Business Park Network
Attending the Drum Business Park networking event offers a valuable opportunity to gain real insight into the support available for your business. With an update from Stuart Armstrong on the Durham Business Growth Fund, you’ll learn what funding is available and how it could help you scale, invest, or innovate. If you're looking to grow your business, this session is a must.
You’ll also hear from Talentheads, a business growth and recruitment specialist focused on helping organisations succeed by building strong, scalable teams. Their practical advice on developing people and planning for growth will be especially useful for businesses navigating recruitment or expansion challenges.
Most importantly, this event is all about connecting with fellow businesses. Whether you’re new to the area or a long-standing part of the Drum Industrial Estate, it’s a chance to put faces to names, build relationships, and discover opportunities to collaborate or intertrade locally. The atmosphere is informal and supportive, with plenty of chances to talk about your business, ask questions, and share any recent successes.
You don’t have to stay for the full two hours, and you won’t be put on the spot. Just come along, join in when you can, and make the most of this friendly and free opportunity to engage with your local business community.
Location and Access
Coop Logistics, 2 Drum Park, Drum Industrial Estate, Chester-le-Street, DH2 1AE. There’s plenty of on-site parking. On arrival, press the buzzer at the barrier and proceed to a space.
Bring Your Cards and Be Ready to Connect
Whether you’re looking for funding opportunities, business support, or simply want to meet your neighbours, this is your chance to get involved in the Drum Business Park Network. Bring your business cards, your good news, and your enthusiasm – we look forward to welcoming you.