Support for Yorkshire businesses in 2026: How Doncaster Chamber of Commerce can help
Doncaster Chamber of Commerce and Enterprise will be supporting local businesses throughout 2026 - here’s how they can help you
Over the past ten years, South Yorkshire businesses have navigated a whirlwind of political and economic upheaval: Five Prime Ministers, shifting policies, and persistent uncertainty in both local and global markets. Through it all, one constant has emerged, the crucial role of local chambers of commerce in supporting businesses, advocating for change, and keeping the region moving forward.
Among them, Doncaster Chamber stands out. Under the leadership of Dan Fell, it has become a stabilising, trusted voice for local businesses, providing guidance, advocacy, and influence at a time when national support often feels distant.
Figures show that only 6% of South Yorkshire businesses turn to government agencies for support, highlighting the widening gap between businesses and policymakers, and just how vital organisations like the Chamber are in bridging it.
Business confidence and profitability remain fragile. With firms grappling with corporate taxation, inflation and persistently high labour costs, nearly two-thirds have had to raise prices to keep pace with pay settlements. Against this backdrop, the Chamber’s work isn’t just a chance for networking over a bacon sandwich, it is the lifeblood of the local economy.
Over recent years, Doncaster Chamber has been at the centre of some of the region’s most high-profile campaigns. From advocating on moderating SME impact of the Employment Rights Bill to pressing for the re-opening of Doncaster Sheffield Airport, the Chamber has shown how a local business organisation can influence decisions that matter.
Its work in securing City Status for Doncaster brought the region closer to government, and it played a central role in the creation of the University Technical College, ensuring young people gain the skills local employers need to drive growth.
Serving more than 700 businesses and their 60,000 employees, the Chamber blends consultation, lobbying, business support, events, and engagement to deliver tangible results for the region. It works closely with strategic partners across all tiers of government – local, devolved and national - helping make Doncaster one of the best places to do business in the UK.
Working for you
Doncaster has a track record of embracing ideas worth investing in and fostering the innovation that only a young city can deliver. The conference brings together business leaders, policymakers and thought-leaders from across the North to debate challenges and opportunities. For Doncaster Chamber, it is another opportunity to do what it does best and has become indispensable for.
For a membership less than the cost of a few printer cartridges, Doncaster Chamber gives SMEs and major employers access to 80+ events, supply chain connections, expert advice, strategic lobbying, and networking that really moves the needle
In uncertain times, when national policies shift and economic pressures mount, South Yorkshire businesses have learned they can rely on a strong local voice from their three Chambers. Doncaster Chamber may be small, but its influence is mighty, providing stability, guidance and advocacy when it matters most.
Having Doncaster Chamber on your side isn’t something every city can boast. It’s what helps a place go from good to great.
To join Doncaster Chamber visit doncaster-chamber.co.uk or call the office on 01302 640 100.