This year we will have presentations from partners on local issues and support. Alongside that we will have some of the best regional and national experts teaching delegates a range of skills and offering tips on everything from sales and marketing to finance, funding, and public sector procurement.
Seminar programme 10:00 - 10:45
Seminars are free to attend and you don't need to pre-register
1
Finance & Funding
Get Funding - Making it easier to secure the right business
funding
UMi Get Funding
Kick things off with a practical introduction to the funding landscape. Dave Jones will break down the types of funding available, what funders are looking for, and how to position your business for success. Perfect for early-stage founders or those revisiting their funding strategy.
2
Business Support
Future Skills for a Future Workforce: How Universities Can Power Business Growth
Teesside University
This session explores how universities can play a pivotal role in addressing the skills gaps in the Tees Valley by working hand-in-hand with local businesses. Highlighting the powerful impact of initiatives such as Continuing Professional Development (CPD), degree apprenticeships, and the Student Futures program, the session will showcase how universities are not only developing a strong graduate pipeline but also directly supporting business growth and innovation. Key speakers include Jo Hughff, Employee Engagement Manager - Student Futures, explaining how regional businesses can access graduate talent. Lucie Burton, Commercial Project Manager for Non-Accredited CPD, sharing insights on how tailored professional development is helping businesses upskill their workforce; Tim Hood, Apprenticeship Manager, discussing how degree apprenticeships are building critical future-ready capabilities; and Dr. Mansoor Soomro, international expert on leadership and author of The Generalist Advantage. Dr. Soomro will explore the future of work, the power of generalist thinking, and leadership in a rapidly evolving world. Drawing on his key message — “The future belongs to leaders who can see the big picture and act across it. This seminar gives you the tools to thrive at the intersection of AI, innovation, and leadership. Don’t just adapt — outpace the change” — this session promises to equip attendees with practical strategies and insights to navigate and lead through the demands of the future workforce.
3
Finding New Customers
Practical Tips for Successful Bid Writing
Executive Compass
As a specialist bid and tender writing consultancy, we are pleased share some top tips are based on our experience of writing winning submissions day-in, day-out. Learn how to: •Focus on the buyers needs •Structure responses effectively •Write persuasively with suitable detail •Use evidence to add credibility •Write concisely and impactfully Additionally, there will also be the opportunity to ask any questions and talk with us afterwards or at our stand.
Seminar programme 11:15 - 12:00
Seminars are free to attend and you don't need to pre-register
1
Finance & Funding
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
Business Support
Open For Business: Help Shape Local Support & Funding
Sarah Walker, Interim Director of Business Solutions & Charlie Kemp, Interim Head of Business Solutions.
Tees Valley
Tees Valley has secured £21.5 million from the UK Government to back a range of programmes aimed at growing the economy, creating jobs and supporting local businesses. And that’s not all – we’re also gearing up to make the most of major opportunities like the new Investment Zone, which will position our region as a global hub for digital and creative industries. That’s backed by an additional £29 million for business support. So, what’s next? We’re focused on getting this right with you – by listening, testing, and building a support offer that truly delivers for local businesses. Join this seminar session to hear about the emerging business support offer and learn more about the Combined Authority's approach to improving this journey for local businesses like yours.
3
Finding New Customers
AI,Data and Digital Transformation: Practical Strategies for SMEs
Teesside University
This 45 minute session is designed to support local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of digital transformation. Focusing on the practical application of artificial intelligence and data-driven tools, the event will provide attendees with actionable strategies to adopt and integrate digital technologies into their businesses. Participants will gain insights from real-world case studies showcasing successful collaborations between local businesses and the university. These stories will highlight how AI and data technologies have been effectively used to solve business challenges, enhance productivity, and unlock new growth opportunities. Academic experts will also present the latest research and developments in AI, with an emphasis on how these innovations can be translated into tangible benefits for SMEs. Whether you're just starting to explore digital tools or looking to expand your AI capabilities, this session will provide the knowledge, inspiration, and connections needed to thrive in Industry 4.0.
Seminar programme 13:30 - 14:15
Seminars are free to attend and you don't need to pre-register
1
Finance & Funding
Becoming Investor Ready
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
Business Support
Tees Valley Net Zero: Introducing 'Sustainable Workplace Wins'
Tees Valley
Come and learn about the suite of support available for businesses through the Tees Valley Net Zero programme: •Access the latest tools and expertise for carbon emissions reporting •Overhaul your business's energy use and discover new ways to save energy •Develop workable strategies for reaching Net Zero •Receive world-class support for sustainability in manufacturing •Learn about options for financing Net Zero and apply for grant funding Plus, we'll take a closer look at Sustainable Workplace Wins - a brand new toolkit to help businesses drive sustainability within their teams.
3
Finding New Customers
PRfect ways to find new customers
Harvey & Hugo
Nobody can do business with you if they don’t know you exist. Nobody will do business with you if your brand lacks trust and credibility. In this seminar, discover how public relations can do more than just boost awareness—it can attract new customers and build lasting relationships. Learn practical strategies to enhance visibility, establish trust, and position your brand as the go-to choice in your industry.