EWIB 2026 reveals its biggest ever agenda at Leicester Tigers

The Business Franchise Association (BFA) has today revealed the full agenda, headline speakers and an exclusive new after party for EWIB 2026, taking place at the Leicester Tigers’ stadium on 20 May 2026.

EWIF collaboration

Earlier this year, the BFA announced they were collaborating with the EWIF (Encouraging Women in Franchising) Awards, with the two organisations coming together for the first time to hold their events on the same day, to reduce costs and time out of office for attendees.

The full agenda has now been revealed for the regularly sold-out EWIB event, that has been bringing women from the franchising sector together to network, learn and grow since 2013.

Agenda revealed

The full day agenda is packed with sessions designed to challenge, inspire and send delegates home with practical tools they can use immediately. Highlights include ‘Leadership, Legacy, Impact’, an exercise in defining what truly drives you; ‘Seven Minute Stories’, where a panel of women share the pivotal moments that shaped their businesses; a practical session on turning ambition into action; and a group discussion on how the most successful women in franchising lift others as they climb.

Captive Audience

Psychotherapist and broadcaster Lucy Beresford will deliver her talk ‘The Psychology of Relationships at Work’, giving delegates key insights into understanding behaviour, improving communication and creating healthier, more productive working relationships.

Former hostage negotiator Suzanne Williams QPM will explore ‘Influencing When it Matters Most: Key Lessons from a Hostage Negotiator’, covering the power of active listening, building trust quickly and making effective decisions when the stakes are high.

New* EWIF Awards

Following the final speaker, guests will be treated to an early supper and complimentary drink as they network with fellow guests before the 2026 EWiF Awards.

The EWiF Awards at 6.30pm will celebrate the achievements of women across a host of categories from New Woman Franchisor of the Year to Inspirational Woman in Franchising of the Year.

New* After Party

In a first for EWIB, there will be an exclusive after party, hosted by Elite Franchise and BusinessesForSale.com. The party, to be held at a nearby venue, will give attendees and award winners complimentary food and drinks and the chance to relax and celebrate after a long day.

Proud to support

Jodie Marsh, Commercial Director at Elite Franchise, said:

Diversity and Inclusion

Saleem Anwar, COO at BusinessesForSale.com, added:

Feedback from the community

Pip Wilkins QFP, CEO of the BFA said:

Tickets to EWIB and EWIF are now available.