Who we are

We’re the gateway to Greater Manchester’s business community.
We’ve been creating opportunity for 40 years.
As a member-powered movement, our programmes are shaped by the people and organisations in our network.
What we deliver stays relevant and transforms the agenda of the regional business community.
We create opportunities for collaboration, networking and growth to help businesses achieve their ambitions.

Our Mission & History

To build and maintain an inclusive, connected and thriving community
of ambitious businesses across Greater Manchester.

Our mission is to create opportunities for Greater Manchester’s business community, bringing ambitious organisations together to connect, develop and shape what comes next for our city region through powerful relationships, timely insight and practical platforms for collaboration.

Established in 1986, we’ve been creating opportunities through economic cycles and times of change.

Today, pro-manchester is a member-powered growth network: we listen, adapt and act on what matters to our members, matching their pace and goals.

We’re proud of our heritage, but focused firmly on the future, and committed to inclusive growth, with EDI and sustainability embedded in what we champion and how we convene.

What we do

Run 150+ events a year

Lead 24 sector-specific programmes

Offer free weekly support and advice through our SME Club

Promote and share the region’s latest news and research

Develop talent through our Academy and Future pro-manchester programmes

Support collaboration across industries

Champion inclusive growth, with EDI and sustainability integrated into our agenda and delivery

Connecting our members with Greater Manchester’s key partners and regional leaders.

Our people and partners

To build a fully inclusive, connected, ambitious business community across Greater Manchester.  Our mission is to support and drive the prosperity of Greater Manchester’s business community through powerful connections, sector insights, and inclusive initiatives. Established in 1986, pro-manchester has grown from a professional services network to a vibrant, cross-sector organisation committed to innovation, diversity, and sustainability.

Our People And Partners

Our Values

Collaboration

We bring people, businesses, and sectors together to drive shared success.

Innovation

We champion forward-thinking ideas and support transformative growth.

Inclusion

We are committed to equity, diversity, and creating a welcoming environment for all.

Leadership

We lead by example in representing the voice of the Greater Manchester business community.

Sustainability

We take responsibility for our environmental impact and aim for long-term positive change. We also champion Greater Manchester’s goal of carbon neutrality by 2038.

Trust / Integrity

We are a reliable and respected voice for the business community. We act transparently, ethically, and in the best interests of our members and community.

Empowerment

We support our members and partners to grow, lead, and make a difference.

Quality

We take pride in everything we do. We’re committed to delivering high standards, attention to detail, and real value for our community.

Team

We succeed together. Collaboration, trust, and mutual support are at the heart of everything we do.

Fun

We believe that enjoying what we do is essential to building strong relationships, inspiring creativity, and fostering a positive, engaging culture. We bring energy, personality, and a sense of enjoyment to everything we do .

Our Story

Manchester. From our beginnings in 1986 to the thriving business network we are today, our story reflects four decades of change, collaboration and ambition across our city region.

Take a look back at some of the moments, milestones and people that have shaped pro-manchester along the way.

1986

Established. Gov Funded. 50 events a year

2006

Young professionals – future pro

2008

Financial Crisis – Funding pulled

2010

Sector Groups and SME Club

2018

SB /NM take over

2019

EDI and Sustainability Created

2020

COVID

2022

HealthHub / Well Being Champions

2025

Academy / Regions / Charity programme – Major Growth

Community Impact

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Our EDI Commitment

pro-manchester is committed to being a champion for Equity, diversity, and inclusion across Greater Manchester. We will lead with intention, advocating for inclusive practices, amplifying underrepresented voices, and working with our network to build a fairer, more equitable business community for all.

Racial Equity Commitment

pro-manchester is committed to actively dismantling racism and promoting inclusivity in all facets of the pro-manchester business network. We pledge to continuously educate ourselves and others, amplify marginalized voices, and take concrete actions to create a more equitable and anti-racist community.

Our Environmental Commitment

pro-manchester is committed to becoming carbon neutral by 2038. We recognise the urgent need for climate action and are taking meaningful steps to reduce our environmental impact. Through sustainable practices, responsible partnerships, and continuous improvement, we aim to support a greener future for our organisation, our members, and Greater Manchester.