Entrepreneurs look to the future, but they also learn from the past.  At times, the past, present, and future seem strung out from one another, but at key moments in time they feel incredibly condensed.  We are living through the Fourth Industrial Revolution, a time which Historian Dr. D. Harrup describes as ‘nothing less than a turning point in human history’.  This week, the entrepreneurs of the future will gather to discuss the history and context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, its impact today, and its lasting implications for tomorrow.

Briars Group is very proud to be sponsoring the Raleigh Lecture 2019.  The Raleigh Lectures are part of the Guild of Entrepreneurs’ Education Programme, designed to inspire and develop entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship in the UK’s next generation of innovators.  As a Past Master of the Guild, Briars’ CEO, Kate Jolly, has first-hand knowledge of the programme and a keen desire to see young entrepreneurs follow her example and create successful businesses.

The inaugural Raleigh Lecture took place as part of the Raleigh400 scheme at Drapers’ Hall.  The historic and beautiful building (a fine venue for any event) was the perfect setting for students from ten schools to discuss the career of Sir Walter Raleigh and the similarities and differences between entrepreneurship in the Early Modern world and today.  They were joined by a panel of experts in business and history who were able to add their personal experiences and research findings into the debate.

Fittingly, this year’s lecture will again be held in Drapers’ Hall.  The Guilds and Livery Companies are where the ancient traditions of the City of London meet the cutting edge thinking of the modern-day capital.  Well over 100 students representing state and independent schools will be welcomed to the event by the Guild of Entrepreneurs’ newly installed Master, Rick Lowe.  Facilitating the workshop discussions will be Freemen from the Guild of Entrepreneurs and the event will culminate with a keynote address by Dr Ruben van Werven.

The Raleigh Lecture 2019 promises to be an excellent opportunity for the students taking part.  As an entrepreneurial business that exists to help other entrepreneurial businesses, we are delighted to be facilitating a day which will celebrate entrepreneurship, provoke informed debate, and add great value to the students’ education.

A full report on the Raleigh Lecture 2019 will follow.

Kate co-founded Briars in 1991 with Andrew Brierley. She specialised in tax law and today continues to advise clients on international operations, particularly land, expand and exit! In her spare time Kate is a Past Master of the City of London Guild of Entrepreneurs and a Director of CCARHT (Cambridge Centre for Applied Research into Human Trafficking).