Advertise on podcast: Cumbria Chamber of Commerce Podcast

In this episode, Maria Ramsdale from Maria Ramsdale Finance joins us to discuss the Access to Finance service and how it can help businesses navigate their funding options. We explore the different types of finance available, how businesses can identify the right funding for their needs, and how the service can provide support throughout the process.

In this episode, we're talking all things Conference Cumbria 2026. We explore what's in store for this year's event, from the theme "Be Bold. Be Courageous." and our keynote speaker Sir Clive Woodward, to the inspiring speakers, panel discussions and opportunities to connect with businesses from across Cumbria. Find out why Conference Cumbria is an event not to be missed and what delegates can expect on the day.

In this episode, Dominic Doig from Solomon Europe joins us to discuss MatchMaker—a new procurement model designed to help SMEs source the products and services they need more effectively. We explore how the idea for MatchMaker came about, the impact it's already having for businesses, and so much more.

In this episode, Jade Clifford from iCan Wellbeing Group joins us to discuss ADHD in the workplace and how employers can create environments where neurodivergent employees can thrive. We explore Jade's personal experiences of living and working with ADHD, the challenges and strengths that can come with it, and practical ways organisations can provide meaningful support.

In this episode, Laura Wellington from Inspira joins us to discuss Connect to Work — a new programme helping people across Cumbria overcome barriers to employment and connect with meaningful, sustainable careers. We explore how the initiative supports both individuals and employers, why inclusive recruitment matters, and hear a powerful real-life success story showing the difference the right support can make.

Big changes are on the way with new recycling legislation, and getting it wrong could cost your business more than you think. We're joined by Cumbria Waste Group to break down what "Simpler Recycling" really means, what's changing, and why now is the time to act. But it's not just about staying compliant, done right, these changes could actually reduce costs and improve how your business operates. If you run a business in Cumbria, this is essential listening.

Big changes are on the way with new recycling legislation, and getting it wrong could cost your business more than you think. We're joined by Cumbria Waste Group to break down what "Simpler Recycling" really means, what's changing, and why now is the time to act. But it's not just about staying compliant, done right, these changes could actually reduce costs and improve how your business operates. If you run a business in Cumbria, this is essential listening.

What does leadership look like in 2026 when pressure is high, burnout is common and people are craving better workplace culture? In this episode, Laura Cadman and Ben Hickman join the Growth Hub podcast to talk about this year's Leadership Conference, exploring vulnerability, failure, listening, burnout and the behaviours that shape stronger leaders and healthier organisations.

High street banks are disappearing and many businesses are being pushed towards fast, expensive online lending without real advice. In this episode, we speak with James Todhunter from Enterprise Answers about the growing finance advice gap in Cumbria, the risks of "quick fix" funding, and where business owners can turn for trusted, face-to-face support before making big financial decisions.

Behind the highlights and beyond the hype. Join a group of young business owners as they talk candidly about the freedom, pressure and purpose that come with building a business early in life. An honest conversation about belief, balance and what success actually feels like.

This month we are joined by one of our advisers Ian Wilson, Managing Director of IW Process Solutions. To celebrate International Manufacturing Day we talk about Ian's Manufacuring experiences and his vision for the future. Ian Wilson is a Lean expert with over twenty years' experience of implementing continuous improvement methodologies across a wide variety of industrial sectors with a proven track record of achieving results.   Click here to visit his website - Lean Consultancy | IWPS | IW Process Solutions Ltd

This month we are joined by Matt Ryder the Principal Lecturer at the University of Cumbria. The topic of our conversation is the opening of the new university campus in Barrow. We discuss the different courses that the university will be running and how the campus community will affect Barrow's local economy.   Click here to learn more about the Barrow Campus - https://www.cumbria.ac.uk/student-life/locations/barrow-in-furness/.

This month we are joined by the Directors of Thomas Jardine and Co. Keith and Jaqui Jackson, who are here to talk about their new leadership programme LEAD iT. A 10-month leadership programme built specifically for founders and family business leaders of independent UK businesses.   To learn more about the programme click here

Businesses in Carlisle will have received information in recent weeks about the Great Border City and plans to establish a Carlisle Business Improvement District (BID). We've invited Adrian Lochhead and Kevin Beaty, who are part of the team working on the Great Border City, onto the podcast to discuss what prompted the BID proposal; how establishing a BID will impact Carlisle; lessons from other cities and how businesses can get involved and share their views.   For more information and to sign up for email updates from the Great Border City team, visit the website here: https://greatborder.city/