21 Jul 2025
A Night of Fellowship and Firsts: Reflections on the 2025 Election Court Banquet
Monday 14th July 2025 marked a defining chapter in the history of the Worshipful Company of Entrepreneurs, as members and guests gathered amidst the grandeur of the Egyptian Hall at Mansion House for an Election Court Banquet unlike any other. This was not simply an annual event—it was a celebration of heritage, a reaffirmation of community, and a recognition of the Company’s new status as a full Livery Company within the City of London.
The evening began with a warm welcome from the Master Entrepreneur, Mr James Talbot, who set the tone for what would become a truly memorable occasion. With a formal reception in the Salon followed by an elegantly curated banquet, attendees experienced the very best of City tradition—enhanced by the vibrancy and spirit that characterise the entrepreneurial community.
A special highlight of the evening was the presence of Alderman Sir William Russell, representing the Lord Mayor of London. Speaking to the gathered guests, he extended congratulations on the Company’s receipt of its Letters Patent, officially confirming its grant of Livery— the culmination of ten years of work, recognising the Entrepreneurs as 112th in the City’s order of precedence.
In a speech both light-hearted and profound, Sir William offered his reflections on the entrepreneurial spirit—reminding us of the City’s deep-rooted association with commerce and innovation. Noting the Mansion House’s origins, part-funded by early entrepreneurs, he aptly tied past legacy with future potential, drawing laughter (on Bastille Day) as he referenced the oft-quoted joke about the French “lacking a word for entrepreneur.”
Yet the evening also carried a strong philanthropic message. In recognition of the Company’s values, thanks were extended for its generous contribution to the Lord Mayor’s Appeal, supporting MQ Mental Health Research and the Royal Foundation’s Homewards initiative. Sir William further praised the Company’s steadfast support of its affiliated Armed Forces units and its commitment to the Armed Forces Covenant—an example of entrepreneurship united with service.
The banquet also served as a platform to celebrate impact. Presentations were made to the 2025 beneficiaries of the Company of Entrepreneurs Trust, and awards were conferred to winners of both the EASI25 and the Defence Academy Entrepreneurs’ Prize. These moments were powerful reminders of the Company’s dedication to fostering innovation and championing education.
As the evening drew to a close, the Master announced the results of the Election Court, and newly admitted Freemen and Liverymen were recognised for their commitment to the values of the Company—excellence, integrity, and service.
This year’s Election Court Banquet was not only a testament to the strength of the Company’s community, but also a celebration of its evolving role in the life of the City. It marked a convergence of tradition and progress, fellowship and forward-thinking—a moment that will be remembered as a milestone in the story of the Livery.
As we look to the future, the message is clear: entrepreneurship, grounded in service and driven by purpose, has found its rightful place among the enduring institutions of the City of London.
Chris Simmance
