Investing in a more active nation: be part of what comes next.
Healthier lives. Stronger communities. A more sustainable future for sport and physical activity. Join us in Manchester on the 12th of November to explore the investment, partnerships and ideas that can help make it happen. A small number of tickets remain.
A child finding confidence through sport. An older person staying active and independent. A community coming together around a welcoming local space.
These are the outcomes that give investment in sport and physical activity its purpose. Behind each are people and organisations working to create opportunities, remove barriers and make a lasting difference.
But ambition needs backing. Successful programmes need sustainable foundations. And the people delivering them need access to knowledge, investment and partners who can help them move forward.
On November the 12th at Manchester Conference Centre, the Investing in Sports and Physical Activity Conference will bring these challenges—and the opportunities to address them—into focus.
For organisations navigating financial uncertainty, planning future services or looking to grow their impact, the timing matters. Decisions being made now will influence what communities can access in the years ahead. This is an opportunity to step away from immediate pressures, learn from others and make connections that could help shape your next move.
The reasons to invest are compelling. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes, while improving sleep, mood and mental wellbeing. These benefits reach across generations, supporting healthier lives and greater independence.
Realising that potential takes investment in the places, people and organisations that make activity possible. It also takes a clearer understanding of how to secure support, demonstrate value and build partnerships around shared goals. That is the purpose of this conference.
The agenda connects strategic insight with practical experience. Cllr Julie Jones-Evans of the Local Government Association and Dave Bell of Natural England will explore the connections between investment, place, prevention and health.
Jason Fergus of Active Essex and Jeff Hunter of Courtside Hubs CIC will bring perspectives on community impact, while Tara Dillon of CIMSPA will examine the importance of workforce and leadership.
Hayley Lever of Greater Manchester Moving will explore aligning investment around a shared mission. An Active Partnership Leadership Panel, featuring Andy Taylor, Hayley Lever, Jason Fergus and Richard Johnston, will examine local leadership, community power and how investment can better respond to local priorities.
For delegates seeking practical direction, contributions from Build My Bid, State of Life, Sporting Assets and UPSHOT Systems CIC will address funding readiness, finance, evidence and connections. Sported, ParkPlay, StreetGames, 10GM and UnLtd will bring further experience of sustainable funding and community enterprise.
Together, these perspectives create an opportunity to examine your own challenges with people who understand them. Perhaps your organisation has a strong idea but needs help building its investment case. Perhaps you want to diversify income, demonstrate your impact more convincingly or find partners with complementary ambitions. Bring those questions with you.
The conversations between sessions matter too. Networking throughout the day will give you time to exchange experiences, ask questions and explore potential collaborations. A useful introduction or a different perspective could open a route you had not previously considered.
You cannot know in advance which conversation will prove most valuable. Being in the room gives you the chance to find out.
Investing in physical activity means investing in the nation’s health and wellbeing—and in the organisations that help people enjoy more active, connected lives. This conference is an opportunity to strengthen your contribution to that future.
Join us at Manchester Conference Centre on the 12th of November 2026. A small number of tickets remain—secure your place and be part of the conversation.
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