We are happy to report that our SiGNAL launch event in Aldershot was a tremendous success! With over 50 attendees—including a strong turnout from Rushmoor Borough Council and enthusiastic participation from current members—we set the stage for a vibrant future for small businesses in the town.

In case you haven’t been to a SiGNAL networking meeting, I should mention that we prioritise fun, friendship and meaningful connections. We go for collaboration over competition. There are no pitches or salesy presentations. You will feel welcomed, and you will go home with a few great contacts, some top business tips and a sense of belonging. We also really focus on the infrastructure of the town we are in, and relevant business opportunities,  which sets us apart from other groups .

A highlight of the Aldershot launch  was the keynote speech delivered by SiGNAL cohost Stu Morrison, who shared the ten most important things to remember when running a small business. His insights resonated well with attendees, sparking lively discussions and providing valuable takeaways for all present.

We also welcomed 26 new businesses to the event, each one eager to be part of the transformation taking place in Aldershot’s town centre. Our Aldershot Town Update  highlighted the promising "economy of opportunity" emerging because of ongoing regeneration efforts. We shared our vision for SiGNAL as a platform that will connect business owners to the exciting developments happening in the town.

As we mentioned in our update, the  transformation of Aldershot is very much underway thanks to initiatives led by Rushmoor Borough Council, supported by external funding from the Housing Infrastructure Fund (£5m) and the Enterprise M3 Local Enterprise Partnership (£1.2m). The Union Yard regeneration project is particularly noteworthy, promising a redeveloped area that will include 100 new homes, retail and public spaces, a creative hub for local makers, and over 120 flats for students. This revitalisation will feature a public square dedicated to small and independent businesses, creating a vibrant community space.

As we look forward, it’s clear that Aldershot is on the cusp of a transformation that will benefit local businesses greatly. As Gary Newell, a member of the Aldershot task force, noted, the end of the construction phase heralds a wealth of opportunities. The influx of UCA students will enhance the town’s atmosphere and footfall, while new cycle paths will improve access, linking the Wellesley estate to the town centre.

SiGNAL Aldershot  will now host these networking meetings monthly to foster connections among businesses and stakeholders. We are also in negotiations on commercial property sites in the town which we hope to be able to announce before Christmas. Our ultimate goal is to establish a central business hub serving all of Aldershot with co-working and event spaces that will serve as a focal point for collaboration and innovation.

As we set out on this journey, we are very aware that we need you to help us make it happen! Your participation is crucial as we work together to shape the town into the vibrant community that we all need. We openly invite all businesses in Aldershot to join us at our monthly meetings. Let’s work and network side by side to create the town we know Aldershot can become. 

Information about all our events can be found here . This is a membership network with a monthly fee attached but all events are free for first time visitors.