News / By Fire Up / 30th September 2026
Welcome to the Fire Up Rochdale September Newsletter
With the summer holidays now behind us, many of us are settling back into our routines and looking ahead to autumn. It’s a great time to reconnect with your team, refocus and start planning for the months ahead.
In this edition, we’re excited to showcase our new event space packages, designed to make it easier for businesses to plan engaging and productive team away days. With flexible spaces for different group sizes, catering options and additional extras available, our packages give you everything you need to bring your team together, collaborate and make the most of your time away from the office. Read our new event packages and pricing guide here.
We’re also looking back at some of the highlights from a busy summer at Fire Up, from business events and community celebrations to our latest blog exploring the benefits of team away days. Plus, discover our upcoming events and opportunities to connect with local businesses, learn from one another and get involved in the Fire Up community.
So, whether you’re looking for inspiration for your next team away day, want to catch up on what’s been happening at Fire Up or are looking for your next opportunity to connect, there’s plenty to discover in this edition.
Blog: 10 Benefits of a Team Away Day for Your Business
As businesses settle back into their usual routines following the summer holidays, September can be a great time to bring your team together and start planning for the months ahead. Our latest blog explores 10 benefits of organising a team away day and how stepping away from the usual workplace can have a positive impact on your people and your business.
From strengthening teamwork and communication to boosting morale, encouraging fresh thinking and helping employees align with your business goals, a well-planned away day can offer plenty of benefits. Whether you’re looking to focus on strategy, celebrate your team or simply give everyone a change of scenery, discover how a team away day could benefit your business.
Activity round-up
It’s been another busy few months at Fire Up, with a range of events bringing local businesses together to connect, learn and share ideas. We recently hosted the Public Procurement: Rochdale event alongside GM Business Growth Hub and Rochdale Development Agency, giving businesses practical advice on bidding for public sector contracts, improving tender success rates and understanding what buyers are looking for. Attendees also heard about upcoming procurement opportunities from Rochdale Council, as well as the growing importance of social value and sustainability when bidding for contracts.
We also welcomed pro-manchester to Fire Up for Accessing Finance: What Funders Are Really Looking For, bringing together businesses and funding experts for an insightful discussion around securing finance. The session highlighted the importance of having clear financials, realistic growth plans and being able to confidently communicate your numbers. With insights from funders across the finance landscape, it was a valuable opportunity for businesses to understand what lenders and investors are really looking for when considering funding applications.
It hasn’t all been business, though! We also took the opportunity to celebrate one of our valued community members, Bushra Sultana, Creative Engagement Manager at Touchstones, on her 50th birthday. Her team treated her to a well-deserved spa day, while we joined in the celebrations by baking some homemade cakes. It was a lovely way to celebrate the people who make the Fire Up community so special.
GM BGH Rochdale Business Connect: Business Issues & Opportunities | 30th September | 10am - 12pm | Fire Up
Join us at Fire Up Rochdale for the launch of Rochdale Business Connect, a new monthly gathering bringing businesses together to share experiences, discuss challenges and explore opportunities. The first session will focus on Business Issues & Opportunities, giving you the chance to connect with other local businesses, learn from one another and help shape future discussions.
Whether you’re a sole trader, small business or growing organisation, come along and join the conversation. Reserve your spot and book your place below.
GM BGH Women in Business: Networking without fear | 15th October | 9.30am – 12pm | Fire Up
Join us at Fire Up Rochdale for a fun and informal networking session for self-employed women across Greater Manchester. Hosted by the Enterprising You team, the session will bring women together to share experiences, discuss common challenges and connect over a cuppa.
Learn how to network with confidence, craft your 30-second introduction and practise in a safe and supportive environment, with plenty of time for informal chats and making new connections.
Book your place today!
Rochdale Business Awards | 13th November
This year's Rochdale Business Awards are taking place on Friday, 13th November 2026 at Rochdale Town Hall. We’ll be at the awards alongside GM Business Growth Hub, who are sponsoring the New Business of the Year Award. If you are attending the event, we look forward to seeing you there. Award entries are now closed.
Find out more!
Take your Business to the Next Level with ASCEND
ASCEND, delivered by GM Business Growth Hub, is a fully funded 12-month programme for founder-led businesses in Greater Manchester with £1m+ in annual turnover, providing the expertise, connections and peer support you need to take your business to the next level.
Through ASCEND, you’ll gain access to:
- Insights and support from our partners at KPMG and RBC Brewin Dolphin
- Tailored mentoring to help you navigate your next stage of growth
- Connections to investors and funders to support your ambitions
- A global trip and residential retreat designed to broaden your perspective and accelerate growth
- Peer learning and networking with other ambitious Greater Manchester founders
Applications for the next cohort are now open – APPLY NOW!
Share Your Fire Up Co-Working Story!
Share your Fire Up story and inspire others. Email info@fireuprochdale.co.uk to be featured in a future issue!
Drop in any time to work or connect. Your community and workspace are always here for you at Fire Up Co-Working.
The Fire Up Co-Working Team