MENTA Honoured at Buckingham Palace Garden Party for Dedication to Supporting New, Emerging, and Established Micro Businesses
- by @inc
- 19-05-2025
MENTA and National Enterprise Network Honoured at Buckingham Palace Garden Party for Dedication to Supporting new emerging and existing Microbusinesses
MENTA and the National Enterprise Network (NEN) have been honoured by the Department for Business and Trade and His Majesty King Charles III for their exceptional commitment to grassroots enterprise and community support.
Suzanne Banks, Head of Business Operations, and Alex Till, CEO of MENTA and Chair of the National Enterprise Network, were invited to attend the prestigious Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace on Tuesday 7th May 2025, in recognition of their service to the UK’s enterprise landscape.
The event, hosted by Their Majesties The King and Queen, celebrated individuals and organisations who, through persistence and unwavering dedication, are driving community growth and enterprise. It served as a powerful reminder that much of the vital work that fuels the UK economy often happens behind the scenes — in community organisations, by individuals who support others to start and sustain their businesses.
“For over 40 years, MENTA and NEN have worked quietly but powerfully to support new and emerging microbusinesses,” said Alex Till. “In times of political change and economic uncertainty, it is those operating at the grassroots level who continue to nurture not only businesses, but the families and communities around them. This recognition is for each and every person who wakes up determined to make their business work, despite the challenges they face.”
There are 5.5 million microbusinesses across the UK — representing over 95% of all businesses. These enterprises, often led by sole traders and small teams, are the silent majority of our economy. Yet their voices can go unheard in policy debates, and the day-to-day reality of their work underappreciated.
This invitation to Buckingham Palace is not simply a celebration of individuals — it’s a recognition of an entire sector that keeps our communities resilient, vibrant, and economically strong.
“It was a wonderful afternoon and a true celebration of enterprise, community, and the passion that drives so many to support others,” added Suzanne Banks. “A heartfelt thank you goes to our members, our partners, and all those we serve. This recognition is yours. It’s a day to remember — and a reminder that grassroots impact matters.”