Manchester hero takes on epic 110 marathon journey to help save the planet

Hannah Cox, a trailblazing Manchester entrepreneur and founder of the Better Business Summit, is taking bold steps—literally and figuratively—in the fight against climate change.

In autumn 2025, Hannah will embark on a monumental journey: running 110 marathons in 110 days along India’s historic 4,030km Inland Customs Line.

Hannah Cox Project Salt Run

The initiative, dubbed Project Salt Run, aims to raise £1 million for 1% for the Planet, funding climate solutions for communities most affected by environmental crises. But for Hannah, this is more than a fundraising challenge; it’s a deeply personal mission.

“Climate change is a global crisis, but the solution begins with individual action,” said Hannah.

“This run connects my family’s history with my commitment to safeguarding the planet.

“Along the way, I’ll pass sites like Fort William in Bengal, where my great-grandfather was married, and finish at my father’s childhood home in Calcutta. It’s about pushing boundaries, both personal and societal, to inspire change.”

The run is just one part of Hannah’s ambitious plan to inspire a more sustainable future.

This January, she will host the Better Business Summit in Manchester, an event designed to rally businesses, leaders, and innovators around actionable climate solutions.

Running from January 15th to 17th at Manchester Metropolitan University, the Summit will welcome global brands like Patagonia, TOMS, and Allplants, alongside local heroes like Swizzels and Co-op Live.

This year’s theme, Future Proof, explores how industries can thrive while tackling climate challenges, focusing on key areas like food, fashion, and business innovation.

Speakers include:

• Darcia Schouten, PR & Brand Communications Manager, TOMS
• Jonathan Petrides, Founder, Allplants
• Jonathan Dee, Purchasing Director, Swizzels
• Sara Tomkins, Sustainability & Community Director, Co-op Live
• Gareth Cullen, Regional General Manager, Nudie Jeans

Hannah sees the Summit and her marathon challenge as two sides of the same coin: both aim to inspire individual and collective action.

“Manchester’s rich history of innovation and activism makes it the perfect host city,” she explained.

“We want to show businesses and individuals alike that sustainability isn’t just a necessity—it’s an opportunity for growth and impact.”

A city at the forefront of change

Manchester’s selection as the Summit’s home underscores its growing reputation as a hub for sustainable innovation.

Professor Hannah Holmes, Dean of Manchester Metropolitan Business School, praised the event: “Our students and researchers are deeply engaged in solving environmental and societal challenges. Hosting the Better Business Summit is a chance to showcase how collaboration between academia, entrepreneurs, and communities can drive real change.”

As Hannah trains for her monumental run, she hopes her journey will inspire others to push their limits for a greater cause. Whether it’s running a marathon or rethinking how a business operates, her message is clear: the time for action is now.

Tickets for the Better Business Summit are available at Better Business Summit.