Sunderland is set to host its first ever business festival as the city looks to project a new image to the business world.
City of Sunderland Business Festival will take place between October 4 and 8, aiming to highlight the area’s innovative businesses, as well as the city centre’s ongoing transformation.
The five-day event, delivered by Sunderland Business Partnership – a collective of more than 50 firms from or with an interest in Sunderland – will also strive to connect local people to job opportunities, host talks by a raft of speakers and showcase the industries that are driving the economic regeneration of the city.
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The festival, which is sponsored by Sunderland City Council, will combine in-person events with virtual sessions and roundtables to bring to life the city’s business scene.
There will be an emphasis on Sunderland businesses but organisers say many of the discussions will appeal to the business community from outside of the city.
Themed panel discussions will explore how Sunderland’s business landscape is growing and changing, and events aimed at residents – including Bridges Means Business, a week-long event in the Bridges shopping centre - will support people looking for jobs or making the leap into self-employment.
Chair of Sunderland Business Partnership, Ellen Thinnesen, who is also chief executive of Education Partnership North East which includes Sunderland College, said: “This will be a unique, engaging and vibrant festival, that will inspire both our businesses and our residents.
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“Sunderland is an ambitious city and through this festival, we will showcase the amazing businesses that call it home, as well as ensuring that our residents are connected to the opportunities they create to provide rewarding careers for them and their family.”
Alongside experts regionally, nationally and globally will be a Recruitment Fair at the Stadium of Light, to give information on training options, job opportunities and guidance.
Karen Eve, centre manager at the Bridges, said: “It was very important for the Bridges to be part of the festival and to stage our own programme of events. Giving people a chance to get on the business ladder or to build their existing business is something I’m very passionate about and I hope we will help them get the tools they need.”
Businesses from across the region are being encouraged to sign up to take part in City of Sunderland Business Festival, either attending events and virtual seminars, or showcasing their vacancies at the Recruitment Fair.
Coun Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, headline sponsor of the event which will culminate in the Foundation of Light’s 20th anniversary dinner on October 8, said: “Sunderland is transforming, and with that we’re seeing more and better job opportunities for local people and an increasingly dynamic economy where businesses support and encourage each other.
“We’re really delighted to be supporting an event that will bring the city’s incredible business landscape into sharp focus and ensure that companies and residents are inspired to achieve more and play an active role in Sunderland’s success.”