80th Anniversary

Celebrating 80 Years of Business Support in Sussex (1945–2025)

From Post-War Recovery to Regional Powerhouse

Since July 1945, the Sussex Chamber of Commerce has stood at the heart of Sussex’s business community, championing innovation, resilience, and collaboration through every generation of change. What began as small, local business forums in the aftermath of war has evolved into one of the most influential regional Chambers in the UK, proudly accredited by the British Chambers of Commerce.

1945 – The Beginning

In the wake of WWII, local business leaders came together to rebuild the economy. Across Sussex, new Chambers began forming—supporting trade, manufacturing, and rebuilding efforts in towns and cities from Crawley to the coast.

1984 – Sussex Enterprise is Born

A number of local chambers unite under one banner: Sussex Enterprise. With a mission to create a stronger voice for regional business, Sussex Enterprise provides training, networking, lobbying, and international trade services.

1990s – Regional Impact Grows

Throughout the 1990s, Sussex Enterprise becomes a trusted source of expertise for thousands of businesses. It strengthens ties with national government and becomes a key player in the British Chambers of Commerce network.

2011 – Sussex Chamber of Commerce

To reflect its evolving role, Sussex Enterprise rebrands as the Sussex Chamber of Commerce—now the official accredited Chamber for the entire county. Our name now matches our mission: to connect, support, and represent Sussex businesses at the highest level.

2015 – 70 Years of Enterprise

We mark 70 years of supporting the Sussex economy with pride. Businesses across the region celebrate our shared achievements in resilience, innovation, and growth.

2020 – Leading Through Crisis

When the COVID-19 pandemic strikes, the Chamber steps up with real-time support: grants guidance, virtual events, policy updates, and the tools our members need to navigate uncertainty.

2023 – A New Era for Membership

We introduce a reimagined membership model, welcoming start-ups, charities, corporates, and everything in between. Strategic partnerships with platforms like Reveela Technologies and Dharma Academy bring next-generation digital publishing and wellbeing support to members.

2024 – A Bold New Chapter

A brand new Sussex Chamber website, built for a modern, digital-first member experience. A revitalised membership model, offering flexible, accessible, and strategic benefits for every size and type of business. Unlocking more value, more visibility, and more opportunities, while remaining rooted in our trusted legacy of support.

2025 – Celebrating 80 Years

This year marks eight decades of unwavering support for the Sussex business community. We celebrate not just our history, but our future—bold, inclusive, and digitally connected.

Join us as we honour the past and look ahead with ambition.