What does NFBP do?

The New Forest Business Partnership is the definitive business forum for the New Forest, representing all local businesses and working in partnership with our local authorities.

After 20 years supporting local businesses, the New Forest Business Partnership became an incorporated Community Interest Company in 2020, to provide benefit to the New Forest business community, including all businesses registered within the New Forest.

Our Aim is to grow the New Forest economy.

Our Objectives reflect the main aspects of our activity, in order to:

• represent and be the voice of the local business community
Support and connect  local businesses and facilitate their growth
Partner with local authorities and other stakeholders to grow the local economy

NFBP has a close relationship with:

  • 9000 local businesses in the New Forest
  • New Forest District Council
  • New Forest National Park Authority
  • New Forest Marque
  • Hampshire County Council
  • Hampshire Chamber of Commerce
  • Go New Forest
  • Solent Local Enterprise Partnership
  • Solent Apprenticeship Hub
  • Southampton University
  • Solent University
  • Federation of Small Businesses

Each member of our Board and Advisory Group represents a business sector or area of economic activity in the New Forest, including:

Business Sectors

  • Business Coaching
  • Education, Skills & Apprenticeships
  • Energy & Renewables
  • Environment & Rural Economy
  • Financial Services
  • Food & Drink
  • Housing, Planning & Development
  • Innovation
  • Legal Services
  • Marine
  • Marketing & Creative
  • PR & Communications
  • Retail
  • Tourism & Visitor Economy

Business Support Programme

Access to a comprehensive business support programme of events, support, training and networking is the most important membership benefit. In addition to business briefings, NFBP organises the annual Brilliance in Business Awards, International Women's Day Lunch, Golf Day and networking at the New Forest Show.

Growing the New Forest Economy

Individual businesses find it difficult to lobby on economic and infrastructure matters that affect both them and the wider business community. NFBP does not only highlight the big issues such as skills, broadband, transport and planning but is also the advocate for solutions and positive change for local businesses and the New Forest economy. NFBP speaks on behalf of all New Forest businesses and delivers local economic development in order to grow the New Forest economy.

Engaging with Local Businesses

NFBP communicates regularly with local businesses in the New Forest via regular press releases, print and social media advertising, our weekly emails and this website.

NFBP encourages local businesses to promote themselves through our communications, including your news, events and product launches.

NFBP’s Facebook page, Twitter account and LinkedIn page is updated regularly with relevant content as well as advertising our events and your events.

Promoting Local Businesses

New Forest businesses are invited to showcase your successes or services by presenting at our business briefings or other events. Businesses with suitable venues host our events, enabling you to promote their own business.

Not-for-profit business support

All NFBP events and activities are offered to our members on an ‘at cost’ basis, which is another benefit of becoming a paid member of NFBP.