Connect & Elevate 2025

Join us for Connect & Elevate 2025, a full-day business gathering designed to offer deep networking, practical learning and meaningful inspiration for businesses across our community. Building on the success of our much-loved “Around Lochaber in 80 Tables”, this brand-new format takes everything you valued from that event and elevates it into a bigger, more dynamic experience.

Delivered by West Highland Chamber of Commerce and DYW, working in partnership with BID Fort William, this event brings together business leaders, entrepreneurs and professionals from across the West Highlands and beyond for deep networking, actionable learning and inspiring conversations.

As part of this partnership, BID Fort William is offering the opportunity to win the a Business Duo (2 people - Non-Member Tickets) for our levy-payers. Email manager@bidfortwilliam.co.uk to enter before 24th November, 2025.

Whether you’re looking to expand your network, gain fresh insights into marketing, tourism, and leadership, or simply connect with like-minded professionals, this is the event to be at.

What to Expect:

• Four dedicated networking rounds – structured, dynamic and designed to help you build genuine business relationships.
• Expert-led sessions covering the latest in AI, social media strategy, tourism trends, business growth and inspirational leadership.
• Spotlight lunch sessions featuring local produce from Bloom & Graze, paired with informal networking opportunities.
• Practical takeaways – walk away with insights and strategies you can put into action straight away.

Speaker Line-Up:

• Rene Looper – Tuminds Ltd
  Where is your business with social media and AI – getting ready for 2026
  Rene, one of Scotland’s leading authorities on social media, digital transformation, and AI, has been helping businesses harness digital tools since 2006. His clients include Sky B2B, KLM, VisitScotland, Balmoral Estate and Famous Grouse. Known for his engaging, practical style, Rene makes complex topics accessible, showing businesses how to use social media, AI and automation to achieve measurable results and stay future-ready.
• Dr Hina Khan – Strategic Leader | Board Director | Space Scientist | Champion for Women and Girls in STEM
  With over 25 years of experience in the space sector, Dr Khan brings expertise spanning academic research, business development and international industry engagement. Her background in space science, including space weather, ionospheric and atmospheric research, and Earth Observation, positions her uniquely to bridge the gap between research and industry. A passionate advocate for women and girls in STEM, Dr Khan continues to inspire the next generation to pursue careers in science and technology.
• Alastair Nicolson – Highlands and Islands Enterprise
  Sharing key insights on the Regional Economic Profile (REP) Report, providing valuable data and perspective for businesses across the West Highlands

Who Should Attend?

• Business owners and entrepreneurs
• Professionals seeking to expand their networks
• Marketing and tourism leaders
• Those keen to explore AI, innovation and future business trends
  Anyone who values collaboration, connection and community inspiration

Secure your place today and be part of a day designed to connect, inspire and elevate your business. Tickets include access and stand space.