A new business network designed to help companies access major regional contracts has launched in Bedfordshire, as investment linked to large-scale developments gathers pace across the area.
More than 400 business representatives attended the launch of BedX — the Bedfordshire Opportunity Exchange — at King’s House in Bedford last week, bringing together developers, local authorities and training providers involved in some of the region’s largest projects.
Led by Bedfordshire Chamber of Commerce, BedX has been created to give businesses clearer visibility of upcoming opportunities and practical support to engage with supply chains linked to developments including Universal Destinations & Experiences and London Luton Airport.
Justin Richardson, chief executive of the Chamber, said the initiative is focused on ensuring local firms are well positioned to benefit. “There is a real sense that Bedfordshire is entering a period of significant opportunity, but the businesses that benefit will be those that are ready to engage with it,” Justin said.
Representatives from major projects set out how businesses can play a role, with a strong emphasis on working with SMEs across Bedfordshire and the wider South East Midlands.
Gidon Freeman, vice president of external affairs at Universal Destinations & Experiences, said the intention is to ensure local firms are included. “Our clear goal is to try and make sure that as much of our investment as possible is spent with local businesses,” Gidon said.
Gidon added that the development is expected to support around 8,000 permanent roles, with a significant proportion of both jobs and supply chain spend expected to come from the surrounding area.
Nick Platts, managing director of Luton Rising, said opportunities linked to airport growth and wider infrastructure projects would be accessible to businesses that engage early and build relationships within supply chains.
Across the panel, speakers highlighted that many opportunities will sit within Tier 2 and Tier 3 supply chains, making preparation and visibility key factors for success.
Kirsty Maynard, commercial director at THSP and a member of the BedX steering group, said businesses should focus on being ready to respond when opportunities arise. “Being tender ready means you’ve got all the information in place to get through that initial stage of the procurement process,” Kirsty said.
“Buyers are looking to make sure you can demonstrate financial stability, compliance and capability. If you can evidence that, you’re in a strong position to progress.”
BedX will support that process through tools, workshops and guidance designed to help firms understand requirements and identify any gaps in advance.
Patrick Lyons, inward investment lead at Bedford Borough Council, said the scale of development is already attracting wider business interest, including enquiries from investors and operators linked to the Universal project.
Gina Bubbins, director of business partnerships at Bedford College Group, said collaboration between employers and education providers will be critical to meeting future demand. “We can’t build that talent pipeline in isolation — it has to be co-created with employers,” Gina said.
While the initiative is focused on Bedfordshire, the scale of planned investment and supply chain activity is expected to create opportunities for businesses across neighbouring areas, including Milton Keynes.
Businesses can assess their preparedness for upcoming opportunities by completing the BedX Tender Readiness Diagnostic: https://tenderready2026.scoreapp.com/
Further details on BedX and how to get involved are available at: https://www.chamber-business.com/bedx
Photo credits – Duncan Jack Photography and Michael Thorn Photography.
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