A high-profile expert in economics will be sharing her insights on the current state of the economy at a free event for businesses in Peterborough.  

The event – titled 'Support for Business to Survive and Thrive in 2023' – will take place at the new Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Peterborough on March 1, from 5pm.  

Kitty Ussher, the Chief Economist at the Institute for Directors (IoD), has been announced as the keynote speaker. 

The former Labour MP for Burnley and Treasury Minister has been invited to share her own analysis of the economy, and also her predictions for the upcoming Spring Budget.  

Dr Tom Williamson, Assistant Principal at ARU Peterborough, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming the IoD’s Chief Economist, Kitty Ussher, who will give an overview of the economic picture right now, and what we can expect from the Chancellor when he delivers his Budget next month.  

“Attendees will be able to access a whole range of advice and support from organisations from across the region, including from experts here at ARU Peterborough, helping businesses that might be struggling in the current economic climate, as well as those looking to grow.” 

He added: “This free evening event should be of interest to all local businesses to help them better understand the opportunities and uncertainties that may affect them over the year ahead.” 

ARU Peterborough is bringing together a selection of the UK’s leading experts to help local business owners navigate the year ahead.  

In addition to the IoD, the event is being supported by the Federation of Small Businesses, the Confederation of British Industry, Metro Bank, Growth Works, Make UK, the Entrepreneurs Circle, and the Chamber of Commerce.  

Growth Works was launched in 2021 and supports growing businesses and organisations across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.  

At the event, its representatives will be discussing how businesses can access revenue and capital grant funding.  

ARU Peterborough welcomed its first students in September 2022.  

It will be sharing details of the government-funded Help to Grow course for senior managers and leaders as well as the programmes and initiatives the campus offers.  

For further details and to register, visit the event’s EventBright page.