Mighty Mini Research Collective Unconference
Connect - Learn- Recharge
16th June, 10-4pm, Pink, Stockport
About
Join us in Stockport for the first installment of the Mighty Mini Research Collective Unconference!
The Mighty Mini Research Collective is a member-led community for independent researchers, micro businesses, and community interest companies (CICs) making a difference through social research.
We're passionate about impactful research, but this conference is focused on how to sustain the business behind it.
Join us on the 16th June, 10-4pm, at Pink, Hilton House, Lord Street, Stockport, SK1 3NA
Want to support our conference? Get in touch!
What to expect
The day weaves together three strands:
Connect: Facilitated networking and informal conversations will enable you to share research and business ideas, build collaborations and friendships, and enjoy the feeling of being part of something.
Recharge: It's an unconference. Expect a welcoming, energising environment, friendly people, and beanbags.We are hosting a soundbath, protecting quieter spaces, and there will be crafting.
Learn: Practical, interactive business-skills sessions delivered through workshops with industry experts (e.g. branding, marketing, tendering) and open skill- and knowledge-sharing from your peers
Registration
Registration timeline
9th January: Register your interest!
30th January: Abstract submission deadline
13th March: Ticket sales opens
5th June: Ticket sales close
16th June: Unconference day!
Ticket price: £50 (includes booking fee)
The Schedule
10:00–10:45 — Creative Welcome Kick off the day with an energising, community-focused opener.
11:00–12:00 — Business Skills Workshop 1: Who you are and what you offer (choose one)
Telling the Story of Your Research Business with Karen Macwee and Rachel Craig, Ruche Marketing What makes your research consultancy stand out — and how do you communicate it? This practical session covers defining your niche, sharpening your message, and reaching the right clients. Designed specifically for small teams and independent consultants.
Articulating Your Social Value with Nadir Sultan, Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub Social Value isn't just a buzzword — it's a powerful tool for winning work and demonstrating impact. This session shows you how to embed Social Value into your strategy, strengthen your tenders, and align with what commissioners are really looking for.
12:00–12:45 — Wellbeing Break (choose one)
A sound bath at Pink
A nature walk around Stockport
12:45–1:30 — Lunch
1:30–2:45 — Open Space Peer Learning Peer-led, participant-shaped sessions covering the topics that matter most to you. Come ready to share what you know, ask what you don't, and leave with ideas you can actually use.
2:45–3:45 — Business Skills Workshop 2: Clients and Commissioning (choose one)
Tendering and ITTs with Thornton and Lowe Navigate the world of tenders and invitations to tender with confidence — learn how to find the right opportunities, craft compelling bids, and win the work that's right for your business.
Shaping the New SRA Commissioning Guidance with Tina Haux, Social Research Association A unique opportunity to have your say. Feed into the development of the Social Research Association's new commissioning guidance and help shape the standards and expectations that define our sector.
4:00–4:45 — Drinks Reception & Book Launch 🥂 Raise a glass to celebrate the launch of A Practical Guide to Collaboration in Participatory Action Research by Rowena Hay, Susie Hay and Roger Newton — included in your ticket price!
The venue
PINK is a gallery and events space dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary research, innovative practice, and collaborative exchange.
Step-free access is available from street level into the building and throughout the ground floor.
A lift provides access to the second floor.
We have a wheelchair-accessible toilet on site, and all toilets are gender neutral.
Seating is available throughout the event spaces.
If you have difficulty getting to Unconference or with childcare that day please let us know and we'll see how we can support you.
If you have any questions, specific access requirements, or would like to discuss your visit in advance, please feel free to get in touch via fran@kohlrabi.uk