Jane Gregory, sales advisor

Jane has worked with local business from start-ups to multi £m turnover concerns for the last 15 years, giving practical, no nonsense advice, training and guidance.

Bolehills bike track

"Bolehills forever" is a phrase passed around between people who have spent any length of time riding the expertly-shaped golden limescale mounds of the track transformed by Sheffield’s community.

Raga pianist Utsav Lal to perform in Sheffield for Yorkshire Silent Film Festival

A trailblazer in the worlds of jazz and raga, Utsav Lal will improvise a unique live score for Carl Dreyer’s emotional masterpiece The Passion of Joan of Arc at the atmospheric Abbeydale Picture House in Sheffield on 15th May

Taking Care of our Outdoors

Recent times have certainly highlighted just how valuable our outdoor spaces are. That’s why it’s even more important we look after these vital spaces and everyone does their bit to help. Here’s a rundown of the key things we should all remember while enjoying The Outdoor City…

Bare Alternative

An aspiring entrepreneur who turned his back on a lucrative career in software development in a bid to do his bit for the environment has embarked upon a one man mission to transform the way we purchase everyday goods by banning plastic packaging from his eco-friendly shop.

Kate Jackson

Sheffield makes me dance!

McLaren: £100 million of GVA to the local economy by 2028.

The prestige of McLaren choosing our city is humbling and speaks for itself, but importantly for Sheffield it has also created approximately 200 jobs and will provide an estimated £100 million of GVA (gross value added) benefit to the local economy by 2028. 

Castle site transformation begins in Sheffield

Following the recent extensive archaeological research, including unearthing evidence of former steel works dating back to the 19th century and the remains of Sheffield Castle itself, the project is now moving into Phase 2 which will see redevelopment of the park and events space.

Opening date set for new Radisson Blu in Sheffield

Sheffield City Centre’s flagship Radisson Blu hotel, which boasts 154 rooms and a rooftop bar and restaurant, is due to open this Summer and a date has finally now announced.

Sheffield’s Urban Boulders (including the Tour de Blocs challenge by bike)

Several purpose-built climbing boulders have popped up all over the city in recent years. Built to closely mimic the natural boulders and slabs found out in the Peak District, these public facilities offer a convenient and fun opportunity for novices and experts alike to work on their technique – all for free.

Leaf and Shoot

A former builder who dreamed of the good life has transformed the forgotten underground vaults of Kelham Island into a haven for producing organic edible produce after calling on help from Launchpad, a unique programme which provides business support to new and aspiring entrepreneurs based in the Sheffield City Region.

Europe's largest purpose-built food hall announces opening date in Sheffield

Housing an exciting variety of inspiring world food vendors under one roof, Cambridge Street Collective promises a truly unique food hall experience in Sheffield, with 20 independent food partners.

Move More

Tim Nye

Tim tells us why Sheffield is a place where start-up independents have a chance.

Razor: At the heart of digital in the North

It’s no longer about the big beating the small, but the fast beating the slow. And Razor are certainly at the front of the pack when it comes to digital transformation in the North.

Libertine: Accelerating into a smarter future

Sheffield is now playing a part in the green energy revolution that’s gaining traction fast. As a power systems technology firm, Libertine is a key player in this rapidly changing movement.

Sheffield comes top in TimeOut's most underrated city breaks

Sheffield has been listed at No.1 by TimeOut magazine as the most underrated city break in the UK. The feature which included 12 cities such as Glasgow, Durham, Bristol and Liverpool, sited Sheffield's affordability, travel time from London and best-of-both-worlds offer as major perks.

Tabby Teas Cat Cafe

A cafe with a proper difference, Tabby Teas house permanent feline residents, who are all rescue cats. Their aim is to provide a relaxing and calming environment for both customers and cats to enjoy each other's company. Whether you are coming with a group of friends, or venturing by yourself for some kitty cuddles, we're sure you'll have the purr-fect time.

Sheffield to be home to pioneering gene therapy centre

Sheffield has been chosen as the location for one of only three Gene Therapy Innovation & Manufacturing Centres to be established in the UK.

A walk on the wild side at Wyming Brook

An unexpected slice of wilderness on the western fringes of Sheffield, Wyming Brook’s babbling streams, mossy crags and sweet smelling pines are protected as a valuable home to wildlife.

Plans revealed for over £200m of investment in Sheffield's Olympic Legacy site

Major new health care, regeneration and sporting projects totalling more than £200m – including a National Centre for Child Health Technology and ground-breaking diagnostic imagery research hub – are set to place Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park at the heart of the nation’s future health.

Hope Valley Train Station Walks

The train line that links Sheffield with Manchester was completed in 1894 and is still going strong 125 years later. Part of its route runs through the beautiful Hope Valley in the Peak District National Park, offering not just stunning views from the train windows but also ease of access to a host of pretty peak villages and breath-taking scenery.

Papermill Case Study

As David puts it, “You know when you’re struggling with formatting in Word or Google Docs, and you end up wanting to throw your laptop out of the window in frustration? Papermill lets you focus on the content: you write what you want to, drop in other bits like images, tell Papermill what you want it to look like, and it does the rest.”

How Sheffield's students can make themselves at home

Things are far from normal for everyone, so it’s certainly a strange time to be a fresher in a new city. Louisa from Benchmark Recruitment, offers a warm welcome and tips for students experiencing Sheffield for the first time…

Amici and Bici Case Study

Julian Gjini bought his café on Abbeydale Road when there were hardly any thriving businesses in the area, and has watched the independent business community grow to the point where Tesco is almost the only chain store on the street.

Emotion, energy and hope! Leading light in world of classical music to headline concert season at the University of Sheffield

Acclaimed concert pianist Imogen Cooper to headline 2021 concert season at the University of Sheffield in November.

Shop Local Sheffield Bags

Four specially designed tote bags encouraging people in Sheffield to shop local will be available from a selection of independent retailers across the city.

Is 2022 the year Sheffield became foodie capital of the north?

In 2018 The Times declared Sheffield the Northern Capital of Cool. In 2022 The Observer Food Monthly awards gave 5/6 Runners Up spots across the Food and Drink categories to Sheffield establishments. So are we now the Northern Capital of Food too?

Chapmans Case Study

Agricultural components manufacturer Chapmans has seen plenty of changes and challenges on its 30-year journey.

Steel Cauldron Case Study

It's been a trying time to start a new business; and Rob and Nikki have really valued the support of Sally Pepper, Business Information Officer with Business Sheffield.

The Sunday Times names Kelham Island one of the best places to live

Having been named one of the 51 coolest neighbourhoods in the world by TimeOut last year, Sheffield's Kelham Island continues to attract more positive press, as The Sunday Times has now named it one of their Best Places to Live in the UK in their 2023 guide.

New arts and crafts boxes to nurture children’s creativity at home

My Busy Box provide fun and educational projects that will help to develop the imagination of young people, teach them skills, and grow their confidence – all in one neat package.

Sumo: Global player in the world of video games

Video games have a long heritage in Sheffield, from Gremlin back in the 80s to Sumo Digital today. And from its humble beginnings, Sumo Digital has grown into a world-beating, multi-award-winning studio since it was founded in 2003.

ITM Power: Splitting water to power machines

ITM Power partnered with The University of Sheffield – world renowned for its expertise in energy innovation – to plan and fund a National Hydrogen Research Innovation and Skills Centre. It’s here they’ll research the safe and efficient manufacturing of hydrogen using low or zero carbon sources of energy.

Walkley Cottage Case Study

Matt Begley took over the Walkley Cottage in December 2020: bad timing, some might say, especially for his first time running a pub.

Avian Hang Gliders Case Study

An engineer with a lifelong love of flying is spreading his wings into the world of business, after stepping in to secure the future of Britain’s only hang glider manufacturer. 

The advanced manufacturing and engineering sectors in Sheffield

We are known all over the world as a leading centre for engineering research, advanced manufacturing (or 2.0, as some call it), light weight technologies and specialist materials - and, perhaps most importantly, having the knowledge and skills base from our Universities to excel in prototyping and R&D too.

FourJaw: Powering productivity in Sheffield and beyond

FourJaw is a cost-effective and easy to install product that’s essentially a fitness tracker for machines.

Ferrio

Ferrio help businesses of any size and tech capability level connect their software applications and data.

Sheffield retains ‘Real Ale Capital of the World’ title

Sheffield and the wider South Yorkshire region is now home to 58 breweries, more per head of population than anywhere else in the country, producing around 1,800 different beers every year.

Sheffield parks with a view

Sheffield is a city built on hills, so it's no surprise that many of its best-loved parks come with an incline and a stunning view as the reward. 

BJSS: Sheffield is a beacon of opportunity

"With Sheffield it’s a little bit different. You get close to Sheffield and realise things are going on, it feels like it’s on the cusp of starting to really explode, and it’s exciting to be in at this point.”

Nǎm Sông (Five Rivers)

A Sheffield based entrepreneur who brought a vision of Vietnam to the city is thriving after securing financial and business support from two City Region initiatives designed to support new and existing entrepreneurs. 

Summer Holiday Culture Highlights

If you're in need of ideas to keep the kids entertained, Our Favourite Places have pulled together their cultural holiday highlights for a creative summer in Sheffield.

The Buzz for Sheffield's Food Scene

Is Sheffield the UK’s most exciting food city? Quite possibly, as an increasing number of the city’s restaurants and bars have been popping up in national listings and awards. Here we take a look at those attracting the attention...

From Cow to Conference

‘The hospitality industry has changed greatly post-pandemic’ says Deborah Tillbrook, ‘Not only did Covid 19 make the distribution & serving of food very different, but it also galvanised the pace of sustainability advancements within the industry.'

Sheffield’s new independent retail hub, Leah's Yard opens to the public

The redeveloped Grade II* Listed Leah’s Yard on Cambridge Street has now opened its doors to the public, providing a contemporary city centre hub for some of Sheffield’s finest independent businesses.

Record Summer in Sheffield

It’s been a successful summer in Sheffield as we’ve hosted a number of high-profile events (the Women’s Euros being a particular highlight) and some of hotels and venues having record breaking months. Conferences have played no small part in this and the team at Conference Sheffield have had one of our busiest and most successful summers to date. Here are a few of our highlights showing why Sheffield really does make for a smart event move.

ERF - Street Scene

Street-scene improvements have proven to be immensely popular as part of ERF delivery. These enhancements range from practical additions like bins, benches, and planters to transformative elements such as parklets, shopfront upgrades, and even a green living wall - all funded through ERF support.

Selina Treuherz, University of Sheffield geography graduate

"I chose to work in Sheffield because I didn't want to leave! I have a really lovely group of friends still here, there's a great music scene and I love being able to dash off to the Peaks after work.”

Container complex coming to Fargate

Sheffield City Council is working with the team from Steel Yard Kelham to create the hub which will be made out of shipping containers and feature food vendors, shops, toilets, living walls, outdoor seating and a big screen.

Daniela Baicoianu - Sheffield Hallam University Student

With a taste for both exotic flavours and traditional British pub grub, international student Daniela is spoilt for choice with Sheffield’s restaurants, cafes and markets.

Forest Dogs

For many, the isolation and loneliness created by successive national and local lockdowns was alleviated by the pitter-patter of puppy paws, but as dog owners faced the prospect of returning to the workplace, a canine loving entrepreneur turned his passion for pooches into pounds after calling on help from Launchpad. 

Aleena Madathiparambil Saju - student at the University of Sheffield

"I’ve been to many cities around England and at the end of the day I’m always glad that I chose to study at Sheffield."

Climb - whatever the weather

If you climb outdoors you will always have one eye on the weather. A little local knowledge can help you find the right crag in and around Sheffield, and get a good day’s climbing whatever the weather.

Outdoor Citizens: Looking after our world

We have 61% greenspace within our borders, we have more trees per person than any other city in Europe, we have over 800 managed greenspaces across 4,000 hectares of land, and it’s recently coming to light that we have more peatland bog than any other city too (which tops the charts for carbon capture). These facts are a source of great pride, but come with a duty to look after what we have.

Womanthology

Womanthology is a digital magazine and professional community for women of all ages and backgrounds as they progress through their careers. It is powered by female energy and ingenuity. The platform champions positive female role models by sharing good news stories, best practice and wisdom from everyone, regardless of gender, collaborating to create a gender positive experience in the workplace.

The Sport, Health and Wellbeing sector in Sheffield

Sheffield has a number of distinct assets within the Sport, Health and Wellbeing arena and, thanks to the rich heritage in medical technology development, the city is home to one of the UK’s largest Medical Devices clusters. Our manufacturing expertise means we also have one of the largest concentrations of orthopaedic, medical device and surgical instrumentation companies in the UK.

Road cycling

In a lot of cities you have to chuck your bike on a roof rack or get on a train to get some decent cycling in. The fact that 1/3 of our city is in the Peak District means that you just clip in out the front door - so for those looking for a weekend away where you can make the most of city life and the outdoors, it doesn't come much better than Sheffield.

Sheffield Street listed second in the Top 10 Hotspots for indie shops

American Express and Shop Small commissioned research with GlobalData to reveal the top 10 UK high streets for independent shops, with Sheffield's Division /Devonshire Street placing second.

The modern makers at No Bounds 2022

The No Bounds 2022 program leads with major pieces of work exploring new technologies, yet with a collective and collaborative approach, as well as cross continental musical dialogues. Here's Liam O'Shea, festival director, with more information.

Your University City

We offer the best of all worlds. We’re home to forward-thinking innovators, independent creatives and pioneering world-changers. We’re an ambitious, modern city that doesn’t lose sight of the important stuff, with close-knit communities alongside global opportunities. Unforgettable nights out followed by gentle walks in breathtaking green spaces. Sprawling shopping centres and proud independents. Most importantly, you’ll find yourself amongst friends in a busy university city that sets you up…

Precision engineering firm excels itself with Business Sheffield support

TTS Precision Engineering LTD makes close tolerance parts for a wide variety of sectors, from steel rolling mills to aerospace, rail and automotive. Andy Sorsby supported TTS to purchase new machinery to help improve lead times and future-proof the business.

Eating out with a young family in Sheffield

Here's a lowdown of a few tried and trusted local places in Sheffield to head for if you're visiting the city with your little rascals.

Hillsborough Vape Lounge Case Study

When Roger first visited Hillsborough Vape Lounge to offer his support, owner Steve Mansfield said thanks but no thanks. “Being me,” says Roger, “I said something like ‘Well, I bet you I could help make it even better!’” Later that day, Steve found himself stuck with something and decided to give Roger a call.

Europe's largest purpose-built food hall, Cambridge Street Collective opens in Sheffield

The newest chapter in Sheffield’s story as a thriving food destination – this venue is way more than just another food hall, complete with dedicated BBQ, sushi and counter-top dining spaces, four vibrant bars, AR Darts, children's play area and outdoor rooftop terraces, while also incorporating a cookery school and community kitchen.

The energy sector in Sheffield

Sheffield is a leader in low carbon, resilient energy and is well positioned to deliver the Government’s Industrial Strategy ambitions for ‘affordable energy and clean growth’ in a bid for the city region to be recognised as the ‘Green Heart of Great Britain’, of which ‘Green hydrogen’ is a key economic focus in the move towards a net-zero carbon economy.

EdTech in Sheffield

Sheffield has been a nationally significant centre for online learning and educational technologies since even before the decision to site the University for Industry here in 1998. Since then, there has been a steady stream of talent and new businesses born of this activity, developing resources and platforms for learning across many different industry verticals.

Top walk, run or rides with a great pub

There are two things Sheffield is world famous for: our greenspace, and our beer. We thought it was worth celebrating this by giving you some top places to run, walk or ride AND find a proper pub to start, end, or break up your adventure.

JÖRO 2.Ö now open at Oughtibridge Mill

2025 marked the start of an exciting new era for Sheffield's acclaimed restaurant JÖRO, as they opened a new destination where world-class dining, hospitality and innovation unite.

Parkwood Springs: An inner-city MTB trail

Inner city MTB trails aren't exactly a common occurrence, especially not when they're this good, and so close to amazing food and beer!

Conference Ambassadors collaborate to host ISA Conference

Conference Ambassador Programme collaboration success! International delegates are in Sheffield for the International Stillbirth Alliance Annual Conference thanks to a meeting of minds of two of the city’s leading conference ambassadors- Marta Cohen OBE and Elspeth Whitby.

Economic Recovery Fund

The Economic Recovery Fund (ERF) ran between February 2021 and April 2025. It was a unique, innovative grant fund that aims to support local economic recovery in local high streets by empowering local groups of businesses to implement changes themselves.

Ride the Eastern Moors

The Eastern Moors circuit has spectacular views with downhill sections that are fast and flowing - but it is suitable for all abilities.

Finn Warman

Sheffield makes me proud to be a northerner. The things I love about Sheffield are the way people just crack on with stuff and collaborate, sharing resources and ideas.

Twinkl Hive: Nurturing the next generation of business leaders

An accelerator programme, TwinklHive opened its doors in 2019 and provides space, investment, and support to accelerate the growth of innovative like-minded start-ups that are looking to solve a real problem for their customer.

What is Sheffield Inspires?

Sheffield Inspires is the new way of talking about Sheffield, to raise the city's profile, perception, reputation - and ultimately grow the economy. you can find out more about exactly what it is, how it was made, when and where you can use it or see it, and generally be part of championing why this is such a great city.

Meet the team

Meet the team and find out more about their specialisms and which major businesses they have helped.

Sheffield’s City Farms

If you're looking for a great family outing or you're just an absolute animal lover, Sheffield has some fantastic farms in and around the city, where you can visit and meet a host of furry friends.

Getting to and around the city centre

Traveling into and around the city centre is being made easier. The Connecting Sheffield: City Centre scheme has various projects to improve walking, cycling, and public transport.

Looping boat artwork unveiled on the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal

Created by artist Alex Chinneck, the impressive canal boat sculpture named 'The Industry' has been unveiled to celebrate Sheffield's historic waterways and industrial heritage. 

Kelham Island rated as one of Britain's coolest neighbourhoods (again!)

Consistently cool! Sheffield's Kelham Island district has been in the press once again, having been named amongst the coolest neighborhoods in Britain according to The Telegraph.

Pitch Decks: What’s The Big Deal?

Every different type of business has its own favoured route for presenting itself in the best light. Whereas traditional retailers might spend hours crafting the perfect ‘shop window display’ or product brochure, in the digital era, attention and resources are lavished on perfecting websites or indeed carefully curating an Instagram feed with on-brand imagery.

ERF - Spotlight On

The Economic Recovery Fund (ERF) ran between February 2021 and April 2025. It was a unique, innovative grant fund that aims to support local economic recovery in local high streets by empowering local groups of businesses to implement changes themselves.

The 7 Steps to Marketing Success - Maximise Your Existing Customers

Did you know it costs 5 to 10 times more to acquire a new customer than to sell to an existing one? Loyal customers also spend around 67% more per order. Learn the 3 essential steps to maximize your existing customer base: staying connected, expanding business share, and showcasing your full range of offerings. Treat your current customers like the valuable assets they are

Sheffield’s Visitor Economy Tops £2 Billion

The city welcomed 18.7 million visitors, up 7.3% from 2024, with tourism now supporting 16,203 full-time equivalent jobs across the city.

Rhyme & Reason

Rhyme and Reason Booksellers are an Aladdin's cave of books in Hunter's Bar. It has been part of the community for over two decades selling an extensive selection of both children and adult books. 

Alan Ball, business information officer

Meet Alan, one of our team of High Street specialists. He’s regularly out and about in his patches- the City Centre, City Road, Attercliffe Road, Tinsley, Page Hall, Totley and Dore.

‘Behind the Scenes’ Reveal of Major New Artwork for Sheffield and Tinsley Canal

A new major contemporary artwork is set to be installed along the Sheffield and Tinsley Canal this September, as international artist Alex Chinneck unveils an impressive looping canal boat structure measuring 13 metres long and six metres high.

FourJaw sees results from Productivity Grant powered investment

A tech spin-out from the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre has seen customer traction rise and attracted £1.3m in their second funding round after using a Business Productivity Grant to create a ‘fit bit for UK manufacturing.’

Tourism brought £1.85 billion boost to Sheffield’s Economy in 2024

Sheffield’s visitor economy reached new heights in 2024, generating a record-breaking £1.85 billion – a 10% increase on the previous year and a full recovery from the impact of the pandemic.

Start or grow a business

Sheffield is a great place to start a business because it's big enough to feel like there's opportunity, but small enough to feel that you can make a difference. We have a strong business community with a genuine appreciation of local independents, a tech sector positioned for great collaboration and a rich manufacturing base.

ERF - Creating local brands

Exciting Developments in Hillsborough’s Burgeoning Indie Scene

Over the last year (and despite the pandemic) Hillsborough has seen an influx of exciting new independent businesses, bringing a fresher feel and attracting new visitors to this reinvigorated part of Sheffield.

Sheffield ranked as No.1 City in the UK to start a business

An annual ranking of the Top 25 Cities in the UK (outside of London) for starting a business, the Startups Cities Index is the most exhaustive research project of its kind. Sheffield was revealed as the ultimate winner, thanks to the city’s strong performance across business support, talent attraction, low cost of living, large working population and fantastic transport links.

Success stories

Business Sheffield, together with Launchpad and other business support services in the city, have helped a number of local start ups and scale ups succeed in their ambitions.

Work begins on new street art project set to create Sheffield’s biggest mural

Measuring 483.69 square metres in total, the artwork will be painted across 6 facades of the brown-brick NCP building on Wellington Street, paying homage to the natural topography which has defined Sheffield since the 12th century, as a city built on hills and rivers.

Flagship Radisson Blu hotel now open in Sheffield City Centre

With 154 contemporary and airy guest rooms, a rooftop speakeasy-style Indian restaurant concept and bar, six flexible meeting and event spaces with an outdoor terrace, a fully equipped fitness center, and a convenient location, the hotel is the perfect base for any stay, whether traveling on business or leisure.

Climbing

Whether you're a beginner looking to get into the sport from scratch or a budding enthusiast looking to move here to get a bit more work/life balance, here's some inspiration to whet your appetite whilst you're in The Outdoor City.

Transform your business with the Business Productivity Programme

Do you have a big idea to jump-start productivity in your business? Maybe you can see your productivity has room to grow, but need some guidance to get there? Don’t miss the opportunity to get the help you need through the Business Productivity Programme!