Technology that works for your business

Our October networking evening looks at the practical technology choices that help small and medium businesses work more efficiently — without overspending or getting lost in jargon. Join fellow members for drinks, canapes and a plain-English guest speaker.

Time

6:00pm – 9:00pm

Location

East Court Mansion, East Grinstead

Attending

26 attending

Cost

Free for members

About this event

Each October we turn the spotlight on the technology that keeps East Grinstead businesses running. This year's session is aimed squarely at owners and managers — not IT specialists — and focuses on the decisions that genuinely affect your bottom line: where to spend, where to save, and what to leave alone.

Our guest speaker will share a short, practical talk on choosing tools that fit a growing business, followed by an open Q&A. There is no selling and no pressure — just useful conversation with people facing the same choices you are.

As always, the evening is a chance to meet members old and new over a drink. First-time guests are welcome to attend free of charge, so if a colleague has been thinking about joining the EGBA, this is a good evening to bring them along.

What you'll take away

A clear checklist for reviewing your current tech stack
Where cloud tools save money — and where they quietly cost it
How to judge a cyber security risk without becoming an expert
Practical backup and continuity steps for a smaller business
Signs it is time to change IT provider, and how to do it well
Questions to ask before buying any new business software

Guest speaker

James Dawson

Director, Ashdown Solutions

James has spent fifteen years helping local businesses get more from their technology. As director of Ashdown Solutions and an EGBA Patron member, he advises firms across the town on IT support, cyber security and cloud systems — always with an emphasis on plain English and value for money.

Running order

6:00pm
Arrival & drinks
Registration, refreshments and informal networking.
6:30pm
Welcome from the Chair
A short update on the EGBA's work with local councils.
6:45pm
Guest speaker — James Dawson
Technology that works for your business: a practical talk and Q&A.
7:45pm
Networking & canapes
Open networking with members and first-time guests.
9:00pm
Close
Event finishes at 9pm; the bar remains open for those who wish to stay.

Venue & parking

East Court Mansion, East Grinstead

Free on-site parking is available in the East Court car park, a short walk from the Mansion.
The nearest accessible bays are directly beside the building entrance.
East Grinstead railway station is a ten-minute walk away for those arriving by train.