International Trade Week 2025: businesses across the UK set to explore global growth

International Trade Week (ITW) returns for its fifth year from 3rd–7th November 2025, organised by the Department for Business and Trade (DBT).

Across five days, businesses of all sizes will gain access to a nationwide programme of free webinars and in-person events designed to help UK companies trade internationally. From Warrington to Dudley to Bristol, with in-person events and online sessions accessible nationwide, ITW brings together government, industry leaders, and trade experts to provide practical support for businesses ready to take the next step in global growth.

Last year’s ITW saw thousands of small business owners take part, benefitting from tailored workshops, market insights and direct access to DBT advisers. The 2025 edition promises even more knowledge and connections for UK firms.

What’s on in 2025

📍 In-person events
On Tuesday 4 November, regional events will take place in:

• Warrington (North)

• Dudley (Midlands)

• Bristol (South)

These hubs will feature in person workshops, panel discussions and networking opportunities, giving business owners the chance to engage directly with trade experts and peers.

💻 Online webinars
Throughout the week, businesses can join practical, interactive sessions covering:

• Cracking new export markets and spotting global demand

• Financing international trade and managing cashflow risk

• Navigating logistics, compliance and customs

• Digital tools for cross-border selling

• Sector-specific growth opportunities in technology, manufacturing, services and more

Why the International Trade Week matters for small businesses

International Trade Week is designed to help businesses develop skills, unlock opportunities, and build confidence in selling abroad. For small business owners, the benefits are clear:

• Export skills, learn how to secure your first contract or scale existing international sales.

• Market insights, hear from DBT market experts about where global demand is growing.

• Clarity on trade deals, understand how the UK’s signed agreements reduce barriers for exporters.

• Networking opportunities, connect with DBT advisers, trade associations, and Santander specialists.

• Practical next steps, walk away with clear actions to take your business forward.

Supporting growth across the UK

International Trade Week directly supports the Government’s Plan for Change, aiming to drive SME-led growth, create jobs, and strengthen living standards through trade.

For many businesses, expanding internationally can feel daunting. ITW makes global growth more accessible, breaking down complex processes, connecting businesses with the right partners, and showing how government support can turn ambition into action. At Capitalise, we see how access to funding and knowledge work hand in hand. While finance can provide the resources to grow, initiatives like ITW give businesses the tools, skills, and connections to make that growth a reality.

How to get involved

Dates: Monday 3rd to Friday 7th November 2025
Where: online + regional events in Warrington, Dudley, and Bristol
Cost: Free for UK businesses

View the full programme and register here: International Trade Week 2025 – DBT