Women & Economy Summit

Are you a procurement or social value professional looking to make a measurable difference in your community? We know the challenge: ensuring public spend delivers real, lasting benefits to the groups that need it most can be incredibly complex.

Join the West of England Women's Commission (WEWC) Economy Task Group for a impactful half-day summit dedicated to doing exactly that.

Transforming Regional Procurement to Deliver Social Value for Women and Children in Poverty

We invite key leaders and cross-sector stakeholders from across regional procurement, inclusion and social value to join us. Our goal is to move past theory and build genuine connections, frameworks, and partnerships that strengthen fair work and unlock economic opportunities for low-paid or unemployed women.

We will focus on mapping actionable steps directly to WECA’s Regional Growth Strategy and Tackling Child Poverty Strategy, ensuring the needs of low-income families are at the heart of future procurement decisions.

Our Featured Speakers:

  • Sue Cohen & Diane Bunyan – Co-Chairs, WEWC Economy Task Group

  • Dr Ruth B. Badru – Associate Professor in Economics, University of Bristol

  • Sarah Lambshead – Associate Director for Social Value

  • Marie Spour, MCIPS – Head of Procurement and Contract Management, West of England Mayoral Combined Authority (WECA)

Beyond the insights from our panel, you will collaborate directly at cross-sector round tables bringing together commissioners, potential bidders, and community representatives.

Who Should Attend?

  • Procurement, commissioning, and contract management leaders

  • Community, Social Value, ESG, and Diversity & Inclusion leads

  • Academics and experts in women's economics and public policy

Event Details:

Date: 1st July 2026 

Time: 9:30 AM – 1:00 PM (Opening speakers start at 9:45 AM.) 

Location: Triodos Foundation, St Georges Road, Bristol, BS1 5BE 

Parking: Paid parking close by at College Street Short Stay Car Park 

Accessibility: Level access into the building. Please contact us in advance for any specific access requirements.

Spaces are limited, so please book your ticket early to secure your spot. 

Let’s collaborate to build a fairer, more inclusive regional economy.

Secure your ticket here.

Questions? Reach out to us at hello@westofenglandwomen.org

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Speaking up for women in the West