Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday (#SBS) marks a significant milestone this year, celebrating 15 years of empowering the UK’s small business community.

Launched in 2010 as a social media competition, #SBS has developed into a lively support network, providing entrepreneurs with connections, opportunities and expert guidance.

At the heart of #SBS is its community.

Becoming an #SBS winner opens the door to mentoring, advice and access to exclusive events – all designed to help small businesses develop and thrive.

Success rarely happens in isolation, and this network is proof: members share experiences, advice and opportunities, building a sense of camaraderie that lasts well beyond the annual #SBS event.

Held in Birmingham, the #SBS events are an occasion that draws over 1,000 winners each year for a day of networking, workshops and inspiration. For the first time, the event has a theme: “Resilience Rocks!”.

After much discussion, the #SBS Crew agreed that resilience is the defining quality uniting every member of the #SBS community, whether that involves financial pressures, mental health struggles, strategic pivots or changing markets.

As Theo often notes, resilience is not simply about weathering adversity. It means adapting quickly, exploring new ideas and learning lessons from experiences.

It allows businesses to steady themselves when plans change, and to return with new energy and focus.

More than 4,500 businesses have now joined the #SBS family. Many have seen their social media presence grow, achieved positive media attention and opened doors to new opportunities. The event itself features respected business leaders, celebrity speakers, and practical workshops – ensuring each winner leaves better equipped for the year ahead.

The “Resilience Rocks!” theme encourages business owners to view challenges as opportunities for learning and growth.

As the network celebrates its 15th year, #SBS continues to champion resilience as the foundation for long-term success – encouraging entrepreneurs to connect, adapt, and move forward together.

The event will take place once again 20th February 2026 at The International Convention centre in Birmingham.

How to enter

1. Follow @TheoPaphitis on X, Instagram or LinkedIn.
2. Prepare a short, written business pitch explaining why you and your business deserve to be an #SBS winner.
3. Businesses enter by commenting and tagging Theo Paphitis under his weekly ‘#SBS is Open’ post on X, Instagram and Linkedin between 5.00 – 7.30pm every Sunday.
4. Show your personality – use humour and topicality if it feels natural to you.
5. Feel free to add a link or web address on your profile or in your comment. Having a website increases your chances of being noticed.
6. It helps to know the names behind the business. #SBS is for small businesses. The personal touch is liked – business is about people after all!
7. Just post/comment once in each weekly time slot, and if you’re not chosen, don’t despair and try again. Resilience is important as an entrepreneur.

www.theopaphitissbs.com/how-to-enter/

 theopaphitissbs.com”