Essex 2020 is a year-long, county-wide celebration of science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics (STEAM). We’re bringing together hundreds of individuals and organisations to shine a light on our county’s enterprising past and inspire an even brighter future for science and creativity in Essex.

What is our mission?

By creating a county-wide celebration of STEAM, we aim to:

1. inspire more people and communities to learn about (and get involved in) science and creativity

2. encourage a sense of pride and well-being, with new opportunities to discover more about science and creativity

3. involve people of all ages in learning through collaboration and participation in science and creativity

Who is behind Essex 2020?

Essex 2020 is powered by individuals, organisations and businesses across Essex.

The Year of Science and Creativity was the vision of Chelmsford Science and Engineering Society (CSES) which celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2020. To mark the occasion, CSES supported the successful bid from Anglia Ruskin University to host the British Science Festival. The international festival was due to come to Essex in 2020 for the first time in its 189-year history but has now been postponed to 2021.

Essex 2020 has been commissioned by Essex Partners which is working in close partnership with other initiatives, including: Essex Unites, This Is Essex, The South East Digital Skills Partnership and #EssexAndProud.

How is it run?

Project Management

Essex 2020 is run by always possible, a strategic place-making and projects company. They create innovative projects that bring together business, education, public services and the creative industries.

Strategic Board

The legacy, aims and outcomes of the project are overseen by leaders from:

  • Anglia Ruskin University
  • BBC Essex
  • Chelmsford City Council
  • Chelmsford Cultural Development Trust
  • Chelmsford Science & Engineering Society
  • Diocese of Chelmsford
  • Essex County Council
  • Teledyne e2v

Steering Group

The Essex 2020 Steering Group includes county representatives from various sectors:

  • arts and heritage
  • business and industry
  • schools, colleges, academia and educators
  • community groups and voluntary sector
  • local authorities
  • the media