On Wednesday 10th July, the magnificent Tallow Chandlers' Hall hosted the Company of Entrepreneurs’ 2024 Election Court Banquet. This elegant summer evening, graced by the presence of so many Freemen and esteemed guests, was warmly opened by the Master Entrepreneur, Mr. Mark Huxley. The event commenced with an extended canapés reception, fostering lively conversation and setting a sophisticated tone for the evening.

Receiving guests into the beautiful private Courtyard, the Master and his Wardens welcomed prizewinners, awardees, and presentees - reflecting the Company’s diverse range of partnerships and charitable interests. All who were present revelled in the extra time and opportunities to meet representatives of the Entrepreneurs’ many initiatives.

The Election Court Banquet is the second of the Company’s two principal feasts, keeping the anniversary of the Court of Aldermen’s approval for the formation of a Guild of Entrepreneurs in July 2014. The Court of the Company of Entrepreneurs meets each Summer to elect a new Master and three Wardens to serve from the following November. 

During the reception, attendees witnessed presentations of the 2024 beneficiaries of the Company of Entrepreneurs Trust, the winner of EASI24, and the winner of the 2023 Defence Academy Entrepreneurs’ Prize. 

The Banquet is one of only four events prescribed by the Ordinances. As well as gathering together Freemen Entrepreneurs in companionship, and celebrating the generosity of Freemen Entrepreneurs in charity, the Ordinances require that the names of the Master and Wardens Elect are declaimed to the Company during this feast.

During dinner, and to much applause, it was the Master’s duty to announce the names of the 2024-25 Master and Wardens. Mr Huxley wished them every prosperity as they prepare to take up their new roles in four months’ time.

The Election Court Banquet was also a major opportunity to welcome and celebrate the Company’s thriving inter-Livery fellowship. Amongst others, the following were warmly welcomed:

•    Common Councilman Paul Singh, Policy Lead for the City of London’s SME strategy, representing the City of London Corporation.
•    Dr. Allen Zimbler, Master of the Worshipful Company of Carpenters, in recognition of the Carpenters’ Company’s longstanding hospitality.
•    Nick Butterworth, the Master Founder, reflecting the growing relationship between the ancient Worshipful Company of Founders and founders of a different kind.
•    Bob Tunks, the Prime Warden Blacksmith, representing the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths and further strengthening the key relationship between the Company of Entrepreneurs and Alderman Alastair King’s Mother Company.
•    Michael Thwaites, the Master Security Professional, recognising the gratitude of the Company of Entrepreneurs for the help and friendship of the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals.

The Junior Warden, on behalf of the Company of Entrepreneurs, extended his deep gratitude to these leaders for their continued friendship and collaboration, which significantly benefit our community.

The principal guest and speaker was Matt Downie MBE, the Chief Executive of Crisis, the homelessness charity. 

 Crisis works directly with people in England, Scotland and Wales - providing practical one-to-one support to facilitate access to benefits, healthcare services, employment opportunities, and more. To a captivated audience, Matt described his particularly enthusiasm for entrepreneurship as a route out of homelessness – using business education and financial literacy to boost life chances and to break the cycle of dependency and desperation.

The Company of Entrepreneurs Outreach team has been working with Crisis through its Venture Studio initiative, and it was poignant to understand some of the wider context into which the Company’s support fits.

Concluding with a rousing toast, Matt was robustly applauded, and thanked heartily by the Master in reply.

With fine food and wine, beautiful music (courtesy of talented classical guitarist Will Scott), and a perfect setting, the 2024 Election Court Banquet was a night to remember, filled with celebration, recognition, and the strengthening of bonds within the Entrepreneurs’ community. 

As Freemen look forward to the contributions of their new officers and members, the Entrepreneurs’ Company remains committed to its values of integrity, excellence, and innovation – in the best traditions of the City and Livery.