eoaLive! October 2026
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8 October 2026The Lowry, Salford, Manchester

eoaLive! October 2026

A practical, people-focused day for the employee ownership community

eoaLive! returns this October, bringing together employee-owned businesses, advisors and supporters for a day of insight, learning and shared experience.

Designed for organisations at every stage of the employee ownership journey, eoaLive! October offers practical breakout sessions, real-world examples and plenty of opportunity to connect with others facing similar opportunities and challenges.

Whether you’re exploring employee ownership, in the middle of a transition, or well-established as an EO business, this event is about what EO looks like in practice - and how to make it work for your organisation.

What’s happening at eoaLive!

The October programme brings the EO community together for inspiring insight, practical learning and honest discussion about the issues shaping employee owned businesses.

Programme

Plenary, keynotes and 8 breakout sessions

The day begins with a plenary session, including a welcome from the eoa, insight from our event sponsor and an inspiring guest keynote speaker.

You’ll then choose from 8 practical breakout sessions exploring key themes across employee ownership.

  • Financing, debt and refinancing after transition
  • Profit share, reward and employee expectations
  • Succession planning and the next generation of EO leaders
  • Governance, talent, culture and competitive advantage

Hear from advisers, employee owned businesses and members of the EO community sharing real experience and practical lessons.

View Programme
Networking

Connect throughout the day

Networking is built into the eoaLive! October experience, with opportunities to connect with exhibitors, delegates and members of the EO community during the event.

Make new connections over lunch and during dedicated networking times, with space to share experiences, compare ideas and continue conversations from the sessions.

There will also be optional social drinks after the event for those who would like to keep the conversation going.

Why attend?

Why attend eoaLive?

eoaLive! is designed for people who want to strengthen, sustain or better understand employee ownership.

It is built around the practical realities of employee ownership — what works, what’s difficult, and what businesses are learning along the way.

  • Gain practical ideas you can apply in your organisation
  • Hear honest experiences from EO businesses and advisers
  • Explore common challenges around finance, governance, people and culture
  • Learn how others are making ownership meaningful every day
  • Relevant for leaders, trustees, employee directors, HR, people, culture, engagement, marketing and communications teams
  • Useful for founders and explorers considering employee ownership

Everything you need to know

Event details

The Lowry

The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford, M50 3AZ

Located at the heart of Salford Quays, The Lowry offers an inspiring setting for eoaLive! October, bringing the employee ownership community together in one of the North West’s landmark cultural venues.

  • 8 October 2026
  • 10:30 - 16:30
  • The Lowry, Salford, Manchester
  • Lunch included
eoa member ticket: £125 + VAT
Non eoa member ticket: £160 + VAT
Exhibitor opportunities

Exhibit at eoaLive!

Exhibitor opportunities are available for organisations that want to connect directly with employee-owned businesses, advisors, leaders and people-focused teams.

Showcase your products, services or expertise to an engaged audience looking for practical support, ideas and solutions that can help their EO businesses thrive.

  • Meet decision-makers and practitioners from across the EO sector
  • Build visibility with a specialist, values-led business audience
  • Start useful conversations with organisations at different stages of the EO journey
Exhibition stand: £500 + VAT (includes one delegate ticket)
Sponsorship opportunities

Sponsor eoaLive! October

There are opportunities to sponsor eoaLive! October and position your organisation alongside one of the key dates in the employee ownership calendar.

Sponsorship is a valuable way to raise your profile, demonstrate your commitment to the employee ownership sector and connect with a highly engaged community of EO businesses and advisors.

  • Increase brand visibility before, during and after the event
  • Show your support for the growth and success of employee ownership
  • Connect with leaders, trustees, employee directors and sector specialists
  • Align your organisation with practical learning, peer insight and community building
Sponsorship opportunities available

Ready to join us?

Tickets

Book Now

Secure your tickets eoaLive! October 2026 - the previous eoaLive! sold out fast, so don't miss out.

The event will bring together the EO community for a practical day of plenary speakers, breakout sessions, networking, shared learning and lunch.

  • Hear from speakers sharing real experience from across the EO sector.
  • Choose breakout sessions relevant to your role and organisation.
  • Connect with exhibitors, delegates and the wider employee ownership community.
  • Event ticket: £125 + VAT (eoa members), £160 +VAT (non-members)
  • Review the FAQs and event terms before booking.
Once bookings open, ticket details, session choices and event information will be available through the registration page.
Community

Join the conversation on eoHub

Get more value from the day by connecting with others before, during and after the event. We’ll be using the eoaLive! community on eoHub for updates, networking and discussion.

  • Before the event: introduce yourself, share what you’re hoping to learn, and see who else is attending.
  • During the event: keep up with announcements and join the discussion around key themes.
  • Afterwards: continue the conversation and swap takeaways with the EO community.
Not on eoHub yet? Use your eoa account email to sign in, then search for “eoaLive!” and join the community.

Programme

Description
Arrival registration plus the chance to network.
Time
10:30 - 11:00
08/10/2026 10:30
Welcome and sector update from eoa Chief Executive James de le Vingne and our event sponsor Plus an entrepreneurial EO founder sharing business insight.
Time
11:00 - 12:15
08/10/2026 11:00
Lunch (provided) plus networking.
Time
12:15 - 13:30
08/10/2026 12:15
A tax-free bonus can be a powerful benefit of employee ownership, but not every employee owned business (EOBs) is in a position to offer one. For many EOBs, particularly during periods of founder repayment or financial pressure, maintaining engagement without financial bonuses can be a significant challenge.  So how do you motivate and retain employees when budgets are tight?  This session explores the wide range of non-financial rewards, recognition schemes, benefits, and engagement initiatives available to employee owned businesses. From healthcare and pensions to recognition awards, flexibility, development opportunities, and wellbeing support, discover what employees value most and how businesses can encourage meaningful participation.
Time
13:30 - 14:30
08/10/2026 13:30
Leadership succession within an employee owned business (EOB) can look very different to traditional succession. Many leaders step into senior roles post-transition without previous experience of leading an EOB, while others move from operational roles into positions with entirely new governance responsibilities and cultural expectations.  This session explores how EOBs can successfully develop the next generation of leaders and build long-term resilience into their ownership model.
Time
13:30 - 14:30
08/10/2026 13:30
Transitioning to employee ownership is only the beginning of the financial journey. From repaying deferred consideration and managing debt, to balancing founder expectations with long-term business sustainability, financing an employee owned business (EOB) can present unique challenges and opportunities.   An adviser, investor and employee owned business will share their lived experience of refinancing post-transition, for a practical and honest discussion about funding life after employee ownership.  The session will explore how lenders and advisers assess EOBs, what refinancing options are available, and how leaders can improve financial literacy across the business to support informed decision-making and long-term resilience.
Time
13:30 - 14:30
08/10/2026 13:30
From economic pressures and rising costs to political instability and changing customer expectations, businesses are under growing pressure to standout from competitors.   Employee ownership can be a powerful differentiator, but only if businesses know how to communicate it effectively.  This session will explore how businesses can use their employee owned status to strengthen brand identity, enhance reputation, improve customer trust, and support business development and sales activity.
Time
13:30 - 14:30
08/10/2026 13:30
Time
14:30 - 14:45
08/10/2026 14:30
We often talk about creating an ownership mindset within employee owned businesses (EOBs), but what does that actually look like day to day?  This inspiring session brings together finalists from the ‘Employee Owner of the Year’ shortlist from the 2026 UK Employee Ownership Awards to share the different ways they bring employee ownership to life within their businesses.
Time
14:45 - 15:45
08/10/2026 14:45
Sharing profits with employees is one of the unifying benefits of employee ownership. But what happens when profits are under pressure or there simply isn’t enough money to go around?  This practical session explores the realities of profit share and employee reward schemes within employee owned businesses (EOBs). Hear from expert advisers with experience designing and supporting profit share models, alongside case studies from businesses navigating the challenges of balancing fairness and employee expectations.
Time
14:45 - 15:45
08/10/2026 14:45
Employee ownership governance can unlock huge benefits for businesses, but it can also create confusion and competing priorities between stakeholders if roles and responsibilities aren’t clearly defined.   This highly interactive workshop session will explore the relationship between Trust Boards, Operating Boards, founders, leaders, employee trustees, and employee owners. Hear directly from representatives in each role as they explain their responsibilities, priorities, and perspectives within an employee owned business.
Time
14:45 - 15:45
08/10/2026 14:45
Attracting and retaining skilled, engaged employees can make or break a business. Recruitment remains expensive and time-consuming, so making the right hiring decisions has never been more important.  Employee ownership can be a powerful tool for attracting talent, building engagement, and improving retention. But simply being employee owned isn’t enough on its own.  This session explores how businesses can use employee ownership to strengthen recruitment, create a compelling employee proposition, and build a workplace culture where people want to stay and grow.
Time
14:45 - 15:45
08/10/2026 14:45
Time
15:45 - 16:00
08/10/2026 15:45
Time
16:00 - 16:30
08/10/2026 16:00
The Lowry is close to a wide range of restaurants, cafés and bars in MediaCityUK, so there will be plenty of options nearby after the event. Depending on numbers and interest, we may arrange a more structured informal social for delegates. More details will be shared closer to the time.
Time
16:30 - 19:00
08/10/2026 16:30

eoaLive! October 2026 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About the Event

What is eoaLive!

eoaLive! is a one-day live event bringing together the UK employee ownership community to learn, share employee ownership best practice and be inspired. The programme includes plenary speakers, breakout sessions and networking.

When and where is the event?

Date: 8 October 2026

Location: The Lowry, Pier 8, The Quays, Salford M50 3AZ

Tickets & Booking

What ticket types are available?

  • Standard Event Ticket – Access to the full daytime programme
  • Exhibitor Ticket – One ticket to the full daytime programme plus table top exhibition space

Are discounted or early-bird tickets available?

No. There are no early-bird rates, discounted tickets or promotional pricing available for this event.

How do I book a ticket?

Tickets can be booked via the online registration page. Once booked, you’ll receive a confirmation email with payment details and next steps.

Can I book multiple tickets for colleagues?

Yes. Group bookings are welcome. Each booking will have to be made on each person’s eoa account. Email [email protected] for support booking multiple tickets.

Payment & Invoicing

How can I pay for my ticket?

You can pay by:

  • Credit or debit card – payment is required in full at the time of booking.
  • Invoice – available to organisations at the eoa’s discretion.

When is payment due if I choose to pay by invoice?

Invoices must be paid:

  • Within 14 calendar days of the invoice date, and
  • No later than 14 days before the event (24 September 2026)

Payment must be received in full before delegates are permitted to attend the event.

What happens if payment is late?

If payment isn’t received by the due date, the eoa reserves the right to:

  • Suspend or cancel the booking, and/or
  • Apply statutory interest and recovery costs in line with UK legislation.

Cancellations & Changes

What is the cancellation policy?

  • On or before 8 September – 50% refund or invoiced for the remaining amount due
  • 9 September to 23 September– 25% refund or invoiced for the remaining amount due
  • On or after 24 September – no refund, if you have not paid yet, you will be invoiced for the full amount.

All cancellations must be submitted in writing to the event team.

Can I transfer my ticket to someone else?

Yes. Tickets can be transferred to another individual within the same business at no charge, up to 5 working days before the event.

Tickets can’t be transferred to another business or resold.

What if I don’t attend on the day?

Delegates who don’t attend are classed as no-shows and are not eligible for a refund.

Event Programme

What’s included in my ticket?

Ticket inclusions will be clearly outlined on the event registration page, but typically include:

  • Access to plenary and breakout sessions
  • Networking opportunities
  • Food and refreshments during the day

Accommodation and travel are not included.

Can the programme change?

Yes. Speakers, sessions and timings may be subject to change.

Can I change my sessions?

Yes, you can change your sessions via your eoa account, this is changeable up to 8 September

Accessibility & Special Requirements

How do I share dietary or access requirements?

At the time of booking, you’ll be asked to insert your requirements.

Photography & Filming

Will the event be photographed or filmed?

Yes. Photography and filming will take place during the event for promotional and communications purposes.

By attending, you consent to being photographed or filmed unless you inform the eoa in advance.

Dress Code

During the daytime we advise comfortable business casual attire.

Data & Privacy

How will my data be used?

Personal data will be processed in accordance with applicable data protection legislation and the eoa’s Privacy Policy.

Delegate information will be used to administer the Event and communicate essential updates.

Delegates' name, job title, organisation, email address, dietary and access requirements will be shared with the event partner and venue to enable us to organise the event. Delegate's name, job title, organisation and email address will be shared with the event sponsor.

Contact Us

Who do I contact if I have questions?

For booking queries, payments, transfers or cancellations, please contact [email protected]

Event Terms & Conditions

Last updated: 29/06/2026

These Terms & Conditions (“Terms”) apply to all bookings made for eoaLive! (the “Event”), taking place on 8 October 2026. By registering for the Event, you agree to be bound by these Terms.

1. About the Event

eoaLive!, is an in person event delivering learning, inspiration and connections for the employee ownership community. The event includes plenary ad breakout sessions, plus networking opportunities.

2. Ticket Types & Availability

2.1. Standard Event Tickets

Standard tickets provide access to the full Event programme as advertised.

2.2 Exhibitor Tickets

Exhibitor tickets include one standard ticket to the full daytime programme plus table top exhibition space.

2.3. Discounts

There are no early bird rates, discounted tickets or promotional pricing available for this Event.

2.4.All ticket inclusions will be clearly outlined on the Event registration page. Accommodation and travel are not included.

3. Pricing & VAT

3.1.All ticket prices are shown exclusive of VAT, which will be added at checkout.

3.2.Prices apply per delegate and cannot be split, shared or transferred between organisations.

4. Payment Terms

4.1. Payment Methods

  • Credit/Debit Card – payment is required in full at the point of booking.
  • Invoice – this payment method is also available

4.2. Invoice Payment Deadline

Invoices must be paid in full within 14 calendar days of the invoice date and no later than 14 days before the Event (24 September 2026), whichever comes first.

Supplying a purchase order number does not constitute payment.

4.3. Access to the Event

Full payment must be received before delegates are permitted to attend the Event.

Unpaid or overdue bookings may be cancelled or suspended without further notice.

5. Cancellations & Refunds

5.1.All cancellation requests must be submitted in writing to the Event team at [email protected].

5.2.Cancellations are only effective once acknowledged in writing by the eoa.

5.3. Refund Policy

  • Cancellations received on or before 8 September – 50% will be invoiced or refunded.
  • Cancellations received between 9 September and 23 September – 25% will be invoiced or refunded.
  • Cancellations received on or after 24 September – no refund and the invoice will still be charged to you.

5.4.Delegates who do not attend on the day are classed as no shows and are not eligible for a refund.

5.5.If an invoice has not been paid in full, the outstanding balance remains payable in line with the refund schedule above.

6. Ticket Transfers

6.1.Tickets may be transferred to another individual within the same organisation at no additional charge.

6.2.Transfer requests must be received no later than 5 working days before the Event.

6.3.Tickets may not be resold or transferred to another organisation.

7. Event Changes, Cancellation & Force Majeure

7.1.The eoa reserves the right to make reasonable changes to the Event programme, speakers, venue or timings. Such changes do not give rise to a right to a refund.

7.2.If the Event is cancelled by the eoa, you will be offered:

  • a transfer to a rescheduled date or
  • a full refund of the ticket price paid.

7.3.The eoa is not liable for any additional costs incurred (including travel or accommodation).

7.4. Force Majeure

The eoa will not be liable for failure or delay caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including (but not limited to) acts of God, pandemics, industrial action, terrorism, venue closure or government restriction.

8. Delegate Conduct

8.1.All delegates are expected to behave professionally and comply with venue rules and health & safety requirements.

8.2.The eoa reserves the right to refuse admission or remove any delegate whose behaviour is deemed inappropriate, unsafe or disruptive, without refund.

9. Photography & Filming

9.1.The Event may be photographed or filmed for marketing and promotional purposes.

9.2.By attending, you consent to the use of your image unless you notify the eoa in advance.

10. Data Protection

10.1.Personal data will be processed in accordance with applicable data protection legislation and the eoa’s Privacy Policy.

10.2.Delegate information will be used to administer the Event and communicate essential updates.

10.3The following delegate data will be shared with the venue, our event partners and event sponsors. Delegates' name, job title, organisation, email address, dietary and access requirements will be shared with the event partner and venue to enable us to organise the event. Delegate's name, job title, organisation and email address will be shared with the event sponsor.

11. Liability

11.1.Views expressed by speakers are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the eoa.

11.2.To the maximum extent permitted by law, the eoa’s liability is limited to the ticket price paid.

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales, and any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts.

13. Contact Details

For all booking queries, transfers or cancellation requests, please contact:
Rachel Swaby [email protected]