The Enterprise Vision Awards (the EVAS), the UK’s largest celebration of women in business, has announced Theo Paphitis as the Keynote Speaker for its upcoming EVAS Westminster Reception, taking place on Thursday 21 May at the House of Lords, Palace of Westminster.
Theo Paphitis is a renowned entrepreneur, well known TV Dragon on Dragons’ Den, and founder of #SBS Small Business Sunday, a grassroots initiative that has championed and amplified tens of thousands of small businesses across the UK, the majority of them female-led. A long-standing ally of women in business, Theo’s presence at Westminster underscores the importance of visibility, advocacy and opportunity at the highest levels.
Theo Paphitis commented: “I am delighted to be speaking at the House of Lords for the EVAS Reception, kickstarting a partnership between #SBS Small Business Sunday and EVAS for 2026. We have a huge shared commitment towards supporting small businesses, and in particular female entrepreneurs who make up 80% of my #SBS Community. Small businesses are a huge part of our economy and supporting them should be part of all of our DNA!”
The EVAS Westminster Reception, is hosted with the support of Baroness Jo Valentine, a Crossbench Peer widely known for championing major business and regeneration initiatives. It will bring together female entrepreneurs, business leaders, policymakers and allies for an afternoon of insight and conversation overlooking the Thames, hosted in the prestigious Cholmondeley Room and Terrace. Alongside the keynote address, the programme will include a panel discussion and contributions from a female business leader, with discussions focused on celebrating female enterprise, highlighting economic impact and strengthening the collective voice of women in business at a national level.
Founded to champion outstanding women-led businesses across every sector, the EVAS provide a national platform for visibility, connection and influence. Celebrating not only success, but impact, leadership and the role women play in driving the UK economy forward.
Coral Horn, Founder of the EVAS said “Theo has been a tireless supporter of small businesses and female founders for many years. His presence at Westminster is a powerful statement of allyship and a shared commitment to building a more inclusive, opportunity-rich business landscape.”
This prestigious Westminster event has limited capacity, and strong interest is anticipated. Those wishing to attend are encouraged to join the waitlist to receive updates and priority information. Further details can be found at www.enterprisevisionawards.co.uk
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Theo Paphitis - serial entrepreneur and well known TV Dragon Photo: Submitted
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EVAS Reception at the House of Commons Sir Lindsay Hoyle Speaker of the House of Commons with Coral Horn Photo: Submitted
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EVAS Reception at the House of Commons Chris Webb MP with Coral Horn Photo: Submitted