Mobilising others in 2022

"If everyone is moving forward together, than success can take care of itself." - Henry Ford

As responsible leaders, mobilising others for an inclusive economy has never been more needed in our region. With the intention to transform systems and challenge the way things have been done, together and through the power of innovation, we can solve the North East's biggest challenges and action opportunities that were unimaginable decades ago.

Collaborative partnership working is old hat in the North East with many outsiders surprised at how much 'joined up thinking' is done. Recent white papers released and economic changes on a micro/macro level however, must mobilise us to connect, celebrate and nurture homegrown talent whilst communicating impact for the communities that make our region unique and bursting with passion and potential.

For a more 'together' North East, scroll down for leadership opportunities to meet new people and collaborate - if you have any news that you'd like to share get in touch.

FIRST Some News.....

Deadline for Entries - 10th April!

Whether you're just curious about entrepreneurship or running a successful enterprise, Startup Awards enables you to connect with the North East ecosystem to grow your confidence and your business dreams.

Startup Awards are free to apply to with the final event at an iconic venue, Sage Gateshead on 7th June 2022.

For the full application process, you will need to complete the relevant application form depending on which category you're eligible for.

SkillUP - If you have not yet registered your business
StartUP - If you have registered as a sole trader or with companies house for less than 4 years and have LESS than £50,000 turnover
ScaleUP - If you have registered as a sole trader or with companies house for less than 4 years and have MORE than £50,000 turnover

More information on how the Awards work and eligibility can be found on our website here.

Partnerships and tickets available for the grand final on 7th June

Alongside Newcastle University Business School, British Business Bank, University of Sunderland, PNE, NEL Fund Managers and Now BIPC North East, we have 2 opportunities left for partnership which include profile raising throughout April to September as well as speaking opportunities and connections to early stage founders and business leaders from across the North East. Contact Charlotte on charlotte@youarefirst.co.uk if you want to learn more.

As well as partnerships, tickets are now available for the finals at Sage Gateshead. For a truly immersive day of entrepreneurship in the North East, join us in celebration and awe as ideas are shared, votes are counted and winners commended.

Events, news, and opportunities from the North East ecosystem:

NewcastleGateshead venues unite in £150m Covid fightback

Venues across Newcastle and Gateshead have united in a major campaign to bounce back from Covid and recapture the £150m a year business events and meetings market.

A total of 35 venues ranging from major hotel chains to historic buildings have joined forces to help build back event organisers’ confidence in staging everything from international conferences to team building sessions in Newcastle and Gateshead. To read the full story, visit here

Net Zero Changemakers

The Net Zero Changemakers programme is designed to identify and support innovative businesses across the North East Local Enterprise Partnership area (Durham, Northumberland, and Tyne & Wear) who are creating or adapting products, services or processes as part of the region’s low carbon agenda.

The project has been developed by regional fund management firm NEL Fund Managers and the North East SME Innovation Programme, to support the region’s transition to Net Zero by 2030. For more information, visit here.

Executive Education

Realise innovations and create impact as you learn. Newcastle University Business School's thought-provoking programmes integrate your organisational challenges into your study to create a bespoke learning experience. Information sessions will be held on:

💡 6 April, 10am: Strategic Leadership MSc

💡 7 April, 11am: Executive MBA

These 40 minute sessions with the Programme Directors give a general overview and it's a great time to ask any burning questions. Book your place and for further information visit here.

FIRST choice for upcoming events:

28-29/04/22: Startup Awards North East applicant accelerator with NEL Fund Managers - 10 am - 4pm both days @ Great North Museum: Hancock

13/04/2022: Social Justice Research in the North East with Newcastle University Engagement Team - 10am -12pm @ Gorgon & Faraday, The Catalyst - 3 Science Square