As 2026 begins, GB Shared is already building momentum following what was a challenging year for many across the UK business landscape. Thanks to the groundwork laid throughout 2025, January has been packed with activity, collaboration, and exciting developments for our growing network.

Founder Lisa Edge has spent the opening weeks of the year out and about across the region — and beyond — meeting members, strengthening partnerships, and championing the power of sharing. Member meetings and innovation workshops have given businesses the chance to explore new ideas, access support, and prepare for the year ahead. Meanwhile, our Community Champions mission continues to grow, with further planning underway as we gear up for this year’s SHARE Days across the counties.

Internationally, the month brought a significant milestone as GB Shared progressed discussions with Nords University in Norway, exploring a collaborative European bid alongside partners in Romania, Italy and other regions. The interest in how the GB Shared model could support European economies marks an exciting step in our ambition to scale impact beyond the UK.

Back home, Lisa joined long-standing members Farleys Solicitors — now part of Lawfront — for their recent event, meeting the Lawfront leadership team and celebrating Farleys’ continued growth. We’re proud to see another member thriving and expanding, and we wish them every success in their next chapter.

We also attended the 1985 Business Club event at St Catherine’s Hospice, supporting both the hospice and members Runshaw College as they shared their incredible offering with local employers. The event highlighted the strength of our region’s institutions and the importance of collaboration between education, business, and community organisations.

It’s been a busy and inspiring start to the year — and there’s plenty more to come.