Connections for Prosperity: Beyond the Sport

The West Midlands is a region built on resilience, creativity, and ambition.

From the industrial heartlands that powered a nation to the cultural energy of our cities, this is a place that knows how to reinvent itself. Now, sport is emerging as one of our most powerful engines for renewal—driving investment, inspiring communities, and putting the West Midlands firmly on the global map. 

In the wake of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games and major infrastructure commitments, the region is seeing unprecedented momentum. Flagship projects—such as the creation of Birmingham’s new Sports Quarter, the expansion of elite training facilities, and the growth of community sports hubs—are reshaping our urban landscapes and creating new economic opportunities.

This conference will explore how sport is much more than a game—its ability and potential to revitalise neighbourhoods, boost skills and employment, attract inward investment, and foster civic pride. This conference will focus on what the region could and should be doing to make sure it capitalises on the huge opportunities presented through the rise of sports regeneration across the West Midlands.

Through keynote addresses, panel discussions, and collaborative workshops, we’ll ask the big questions:

• How can world-class facilities unlock regeneration in our cities and towns?
• What role does sport play in attracting investment and tourism to the West Midlands?
• How can we ensure that regeneration delivers for all, from elite athletes to grassroots participants?
• What lessons can be learnt from the delivery and legacy of CWG22?
• What lessons can we draw from international examples of sport-led transformation?

Bringing together sports leaders, urban planners, investors, policymakers, community organisations, and academics, this event will showcase the West Midlands as a living laboratory for sport-led regeneration—and challenge us to ensure that growth is sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready.

Tickets for this event will go on sale from 1st November

• Early Bird tickets will be available to all from 1st November to 12th December 2025 at just £99 + VAT
• From 13th December to 3rd February, tickets will increase to £125 + VAT for not for profit organisations and £175 + VAT for the private sector
• Members of the Centre’s Reimagining the Region network will receive one complimentary delegate pass per organisation (if booked by 12th December)

If you and your organisation are interested in sponsoring this key event for the region, please contact Chris Smith via email (chris@thenewmidlands.org.uk)