Innovate UK Innovation Forum: North East

Turning breakthrough ideas into the UK’s next industry giants

The North East is home to world-leading strengths in clean energy, advanced manufacturing and digital technologies.

As innovation becomes increasingly important to the UK's productivity, competitiveness and prosperity, the region has a vital role to play in shaping the industries and technologies of the future. 

Bringing together leaders from business, investment and the public sector, the Innovate UK Innovation Forum will explore how innovation can drive growth across the North East while supporting the UK's wider economic ambitions. 

Attendees will hear how Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency, is evolving its support for innovative businesses and helping to create the conditions for growth across the region.  

The event will also feature alongside keynote speakers, panel discussions and insights from investors and regional leaders on scaling high potential companies.  

It will provide an opportunity to strengthen partnerships, share ambitions and explore how innovation can translate into greater investment, productivity and opportunity. 

We hope you will be able to join us for this important conversation and look forward to welcoming you to Newcastle.

Agenda

Please note this agenda is subject to change

2pm - Registration and networking

2:20pm - Welcome to Helix | Jane Robinson, Newcastle Uni, PVC for Business, Partnerships and Place 

Welcome to the event | Tom Adeyoola, Executive Chair, Innovate UK

2:30pm - Keynote | Chi Onwurah MP, Labour MP for Newcastle upon Tyne Central and West

2:40pm - Keynote | Tom Adeyoola, Executive Chair, Innovate UK

2.50pm - North East Mayoral Strategic Authority - Phil Witcherley, Director of Economic Growth and Innovation, North East Combined Authority

3:00pm - Panel Discussion: Scaling the Next Generation of High Potential Businesses

Chair: Phil Witcherley, Director of Economic Growth and Innovation, North East Combined Authority

• Vicky Mears, Director, British Business Bank
• Thomas O’Neil, Northstar Ventures (confirmed) 
• James Widmer, CEO, Advanced Electric Machines
• Estelle Banks, Director of Newcastle Innovations, Newcastle University

The panel will discuss the critical role of investment in creating the North East's next industry leaders, exploring how access to finance, business support and strong leadership can help high potential companies scale and succeed in national and global markets.

3.50pm - Closing remarks | Tom Adeyoola, Executive Chair, Innovate UK

4:00pm - Networking and refreshments

4.30pm - Close

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