Wales’ Economy at a Tipping Point

[Swansea] The movement to redesign our economy is gathering pace. On Wednesday 12 November 2025, Wellbeing Economy Cymru (WE Cymru), supported by 4theRegion and a growing network of Welsh partners, will host the second Festival of Ideas at Swansea Arena. The theme: what would it take to build an economy in Wales that works for people and planet, not just profit.

The event is free to attend and open to all - whether you’re a community leader, public‑sector professional, business owner, student or simply someone who cares about the future of Wales.

Today’s economic system remains anchored in extraction and relentless growth. WE Cymru says this is unsustainable: climate breakdown, deepening inequality and fractured communities are symptoms not side‑effects. Wales already has the foundation to change course - the Well‑being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015, a vibrant social enterprise sector, and a growing demand for a narrative beyond GDP. But narrative alone won’t do: we need action. That’s what the Festival is for: gathering the thinkers, doers, communities and institutions who are already showing what a wellbeing economy looks like in practice, and then asking: how do we scale this, deepen this, accelerate this?

• A strong line‑up of speakers including Derek Walker (Future Generations Commissioner for Wales) and key figures from business, public services and community sectors. • A keynote panel discussion and provocations that challenge conventional assumptions about progress and growth. • Exhibitions and networking spaces where you can meet the practical projects - from community enterprises to mission‑led businesses - already embodying a different economy. • An Open Space session: structured but participatory, so attendees set the agenda and start working together on the issues that matter most.