This year’s summit brings together expert-led sessions from partners tackling key local issues and the support available to help your business grow. Alongside this, hear from leading regional and national voices sharing practical insights across sales, marketing, finance and funding.
You’ll also have the chance to experience our new TEESx Talks – short, impactful sessions packed with fresh ideas – and take part in facilitated networking, designed to help you make meaningful connections that last beyond the day.
Seminar programme 10:15 - 11:00
Seminars are free to attend and you don't need to pre-register
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Floor 1
Understanding interest and finding the best finance
UMi Get Funding
A practical introduction to interest and finance options, helping you navigate the choices and identify what’s right for your business.
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Floor 2
TEESx Talks
Big Ideas. Local Voices
Hear from inspiring local voices and industry experts in a series of short, impactful talks designed to spark new thinking and practical takeaways you can put into action.
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Floor 3
Open for Business: The Future of Business Support
Tees Valley Combined Authority
Something new is coming for Tees Valley businesses. We’re building a new business support service for Tees Valley, one that’s simpler, more tailored and designed around how businesses operate today. It’s not just an update; it’s fundamental shift in how support works in our region. You’ve told us that all too often, support is hard to navigate, fragmented, or arrives too late to make a difference. We’re changing that. Here’s what’s coming: A single starting point for every business: Access high quality, practical support, whatever stage you’re at. Targeted support designed around the challenges you face today, not generic provision. A smarter, personalised digital experience, where you can create a free account and get tailored recommendations on funding, support and opportunities, alongside tools, content and guidance to help you take action. A system that connects you to opportunities, including new investment, innovation and growth opportunities emerging across Tees Valley and Internationally. Join us to hear first hand what's changing, share your feedback and discover how your business can get ahead of the launch.
11:00am - Facilitated Network Session with Jeni Smith
Seminar programme 11:30 - 12:15
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Floor 1
Meet the Funders - Live Panel Discussion
UMi Get Funding
Hear directly from the funders in this dynamic panel discussion. Learn what drives funding decisions, what sectors are attracting attention, and how to make your proposal stand out. Bring your questions — this is your chance to gain insights straight from the source.
2
Floor 2
TEESx Talks
Big Ideas. Local Voices
Hear from inspiring local voices and industry experts in a series of short, impactful talks designed to spark new thinking and practical takeaways you can put into action.
3
Floor 3
Your pipeline is lying. Hosted by Jessica Williams
Teesside University
Most SMEs don’t struggle with generating leads, they struggle with converting them into consistent revenue. Pipelines often create a false sense of confidence, filled with overestimated opportunities, stalled deals and activity that doesn’t translate into results. This practical, straight-talking workshop will challenge how you view your pipeline, helping you identify where revenue is being lost and what needs to change. Through real examples and interactive discussion, you’ll gain clarity on what a healthy pipeline looks like and how to improve it.
Seminar programme 13:30 - 14:15
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Floor 1
Building a pipeline of Investor conversations
UMi Get Funding
Are you ready to take your business to the next level with external investment? In this practical breakout session at the Tees Valley Business Summit, Dave Jones will walk you through what it means to be truly investor ready. From refining your pitch and financials to understanding investor expectations and due diligence, this session will give you the knowledge and confidence to engage with potential investors and stand out from the crowd. Whether you're seeking angel investment, venture capital, or growth finance, this is a must-attend for ambitious businesses. Who Should Attend? Startups, scale-ups, SMEs, and driven business leaders seeking to secure external capital to fuel their growth ambition Why Attend? Learn what funders and investors are really looking for Discover how to position your business for raising capital Get practical advice on refining your pitch and financials Hear directly from funders and investment experts
2
Floor 2
The Business from Red Radio. Live!
Red Radio
The Red Radio bring their show, The Business to The Tees Valley Business Summit. Host Jimmy Lees is joined by two of the regions finest business owners and leaders: Peter Turner from award-winning interior design agency, Cocoon & Bauer. Iain McPherson from WP Engine, who recently acquired his agency bigbite. Hear stories and insights from these two fantastic business owners, as well as get the opportunity to fire your questions to them
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Floor 3
Coming Soon
TBC
Check back for new updates soon.
2:00pm - Facilitated Network Session with Jeni Smith
