Beyond the Horizon  Why we’re supporting one of the South West’s most inspiring business events

This year’s theme, ‘Beyond the Horizon: celebrating the South West and embracing global opportunity’ couldn’t be more timely or more relevant. The South West is home to a vibrant mix of innovators, entrepreneurs, and internationally ambitious businesses. And this event captures everything that makes the region such a powerful force: creativity, connectivity, and community.

As the sun rises over Ashton Court on Friday 8 August, more than 200 business leaders, founders, and changemakers will gather for a morning of inspiration, conversation, and connection – all before 9am.

We’re not just supporting this because it’s a stunning setting (though the mass balloon ascent is unforgettable). We’re supporting it because it reflects the future we want to help build – one where South West businesses are leading on the global stage while staying rooted in strong local values.

Expect two energising panel discussions that go deeper than the usual soundbites:

•  Why the South West is a magnet for entrepreneurs – and what’s coming next
• How our businesses can scale internationally and become global ambassadors for the region

“This is a unique experience, allowing you to combine some interesting and lively business discussion with the opportunity to see the mass ascent of the balloons”

– Steve Hill, Chair of South West Ambassador Group.

We’re inviting IoD members and business leaders from across the UK to join us. With several regional business organisations also supporting the event, it’s shaping up to be a fantastic opportunity for cross-sector knowledge exchange and high-value networking.

We’re also excited to welcome involvement from the IoD International Trade SIG with Yildiz Tugba Kara, Chair of the Türkiye Working Group, joining as a panellist in our second discussion on scaling globally.

And while the breakfast will be over before most people have had their second coffee, we highly recommend making a day of it. The wider Bristol International Balloon Fiesta is one of the UK’s most uplifting summer experiences – literally and figuratively.

If you’re a founder, a leader, or someone who believes in the power of business to do good – we’d love to see you there.

Tickets: Just £30 or £20 for IoD members. Book here.

Group offer: 10 tickets for the price of 8 – ideal for team, client or partner hospitality. Book here.

Ticket includes:

•  Parking
• Admission to the premium Sky Lounge
• Refreshments
• Panel discussions
• Networking
• Ringside view of the first mass Balloon ascent (weather permitting).

Carrie Stephenson & Richard Lowe – South West Ambassadors, Institute of Directors