Zones.

Our Zones are located within the corners of our exhibition hall.

Wednesday 2nd July

SHOWCASE - Third sector talking about all their Magic!

Time: 11:15 - 13:15

Four Voices. Four visions. Four sessions you won't want to miss.

Showcase is a celebration of community, purpose, and the incredible impact being made by everyday people doing extraordinary things. This session brings together voices from across the community to share the powerful work they’re doing—from grassroots projects and social causes to creative initiatives and local support networks.

It’s a space to hear real stories, connect with like-minded individuals, and be reminded of the good that’s happening all around us. You'll leave feeling inspired, motivated, and full of ideas for how you can create or support positive change in your own world.

Sessions:

  • 11:15 - 11:45 Paula Chamberlain & Niki Kinsella.

  • 12:00 -12:15 Sonia Zoref & Martyn Haymonds.

  • 12:30 - 12:45 KImberley Thirkhill & Simon Thirkhill

  • 1:00 - 1:15 Ellie Mcgrath & Andy Peers

FUNDING & PHILANTHROPY - Challenges & Solutions

Time: 13:45 - 17:00 Location: Impact Zone

Seven Voices. Seven visions. Seven sessions you won't want to miss.

Funding and philanthropy is discussions and story sharing around people with impact organisations encounter daily. This session brings together voices from across the community to share the powerful challenges and solutions they have found in the work doing—from grassroots projects and social causes to creative initiatives and local support networks, including funders.

It’s a space to hear real stories, connect with like-minded individuals, and be reminded of the good that’s happening all around us. You'll leave feeling inspired, motivated, and full of ideas for how you can create or support positive change in your own world.

Sessions:

  • 13:45 - 14:00. Louise Reed

  • 14:15 -14:30 Julia Lee

  • 14:45 - 15:00. Ellie Brook

  • 15:15 - 15:30. TBC

  • 15:45 - 16:00 Brendan Hegarty

  • 16:15 -16:30. Nakita Kayumba

  • 16:45 - 17:00 Ged Devlin

Thursday 3rd July

EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES - Wellbeing, Learning & Education

Time: 10:00 - 12:30

Four Voices. Four visions. Four sessions you won't want to miss.

Well being, learning & Education is a showcase of different wyas we can make meaningful change within our communities and the incredible impact being made by people & organisations who work tirelessly everyday to make positive impact. This session brings together a range voices from across the community to share the powerful work they’re doing.

It’s a space to hear real stories, connect with like-minded individuals, and be reminded of the good that’s happening all around us. You'll leave feeling inspired, motivated, and full of ideas for how you can create or support positive change in your own world.

Sessions:

  • 10:00 - 10:30 Emma Baylin

  • 10:45 - 11:00. Steven Campbell

  • 11:15 - 11:30 Madeleine France

  • 11:45 - 12:30 - Pannel - Nathan Gamester, Luke Taylor, Ben Robinson, Jon Thornton

YOUNG ENTREPRENEURS & STARTUPS - FIND YOUR MAGIC?

Time: 13:00 - 15:00

Six Voices. Six visions. Six sessions you won't want to miss.

Young Entrepreneurs & Start ups is a showcase of different organisations that work with either young people or start up businesses who want to work with impact and purpose, we can make meaningful change within our communities and the incredible impact even if we earn a profit. Profit with purpose. This session brings together a range voices from across the community to share the powerful work they’re doing.

It’s a space to hear real stories, connect with like-minded individuals, and be reminded of the good that’s happening all around us. You'll leave feeling inspired, motivated, and full of ideas for how you can create or support positive change in your own world and also make some great connections to some amazing mentors that will help you get started!

Sessions:

  • 13:30 - 14:30 Dr Oak

  • 14:45 - 15:00 Andrew Bishop& Richard Gill

  • 15:15 - 15:30 Sharron Wilkinson

  • 15:45 - 16:00 Kathryn Eastwood

  • 16:15 - 16:30 Kirsty Watson

  • 16:30 - 17:00 Emma Baylin

Who Should Attend

Young Entrepreneurs & Start ups

  • Anyone passionate about community, connection, and social impact & Well being, learning & Education

  • Changemakers, creatives, and entrepreneurs looking for fresh inspiration

  • Those working in local initiatives, education, or the non-profit space, mentors and business funders

  • People curious about getting more involved or starting something new

  • Anyone who just wants to hear uplifting stories that prove people really do care and you can make profit with purpose

Whether you're already doing the work or just beginning to explore your own role in community impact, Young Entrepreneurs & Start ups your invitation to be part of something meaningful.

Impact Zone.


People Zone.

Wednesday 2nd July

Welcome
Time: 11:15 - 11:30

The Vision Pyramid – Cultivating a Shared Sense of Purpose with Graham Norris
Time: 11:45 - 12:15

Speaker - Graham Norris

To Succeed is a Mental Game (Looking After Yourself & Your People) with Nicola Eccles
Time: 12:30 - 1:00

Nicola shines a spotlight on the role of mental health for investors, entrepreneurs and small fast paced teams working in innovation and growth. To create a successful product, business and community or to bring anything to scale requires many elements of psychological wellbeing. Self esteem, purpose, autonomy, emotional intelligence and resilience are just a few of the many mentally healthy facets that are needed. Mental health issues can make or break innovative start ups. Yet typically they are at the bottom of the list due to time, money and pressure to build and succeed.

This session provides some real world simple and effective tools and methods to provide a mentally health culture for yourself and your team.

Speaker - Nicola Eccles

How to Build a Team That Loves Coming to Work – with Chris Dalrymple
Time: 1:15 - 1:45

Speaker - Chris Dalrymple

Human Design: Unlock Your Energy Blueprint with Niki Kinsella
Time: 2:00 - 2:30

Speaker - Niki Kinsella

The Intrapreneur Within: Unlocking Entrepreneurial Talent Across Your Workforce
Time: 2:45 - 3:15

Discover how to nurture and channel the entrepreneurial potential already within your team to spark innovation, boost retention, and drive purpose-led progression. Ideal for business owners, managers, and HR leaders. This session is underpinned by current PhD research exploring how intrapreneurship and marginalisation intersect in today’s evolving workplaces.

Speaker - Kirsty Watson

Scaling Smarter – How Data-Driven People Operations Drive Growth with Gill Wetherill & Lou Matthews
Time: 3:30 - 4:00

Speakers - Gill Wetherill & Lou Matthews

Nurturing Women to "ProspHER" with Serena Fordham
Time: 4:15 - 4:45

Speakers - Serena Fordham & Mel and Brontë

Thursday 3rd July

Effective Leadership Crash Course
Time: 10:00 - 10:30

Speaker - Chris Roebuck

The $1.1 Trillion Question: How Could Workplace Health and Wellbeing Solve Healthcare's Workforce Crisis? with Emma-Louise Fusari
Time: 10:45 - 11:15

Discover the surprising connection between healthcare's crisis and your biggest business challenges, then learn how to turn workplace wellbeing from a cost into a competitive advantage using the latest research.

Who Should Attend: Founders, scale-up leaders, and anyone struggling with talent retention, productivity challenges, or losing great people to preventable stress and burnout.

Why Attend: Walk away with a proven methodology to identify what's actually causing stress in your organisation and practical strategies that deliver measurable ROI within 12 months.

Speaker - Emma-Louise Fusari

Dementia with Big Ian Donaghy
Time: 11:30 - 12:00

Speaker - Big Ian

Is your Equality, Diversity & Inclusion strategy changing? with Liz Mayers

Time: 12:15 - 12:45

Speaker - Liz Mayers

The Power of the Mind with Melissa Canavan
Time: 1:00 - 1:30

Speaker - Melissa Canavan

Myndt;me: From Startup Spark to Wrist-Worn Calm with Pat Porter

Time: 1:45 - 2:15

Speaker - Pat Porter

The Hard Stuff Around Culture by Vikki Sly
Time: 2:30 - 3:00

Speaker - Vikki Sly

Go for Goosebumps with Helen Gibson MBE

Time: 3:15 - 3:45

Speaker - Helen Gibson

Real Talk Studio with Toby Sinclair

Time: 4:00 - 4:30

Speaker - Toby Sinclair


Cyber Zone.

Wednesday 2nd July

Next Wave Cyber: The NYCyberCom Lookbook, Cohorts 1 & 2 opening and launch
Time: 11:15 - 11:30

Explore the latest cyber innovation from NYCyberCom’s first two cohorts. This session launches the official Lookbook, showcasing early-stage projects with real-world potential. Ideal for innovators, funders, and collaborators ready to connect with the next wave of cyber talent.

What If Hack-Proof Communication Was Possible? Meet Ringcryption
Time: 11:45 - 12:00

A showcase of Ringcryption, a NW CyberCom proof-of-concept using single-photon LEDs for quantum key distribution. Learn how this technology is paving the way for practical, unbreakable communications. For cyber experts, investors, and deep tech collaborators.
Speaker - Gizem Acar

Stuck at the Starting Line? Why Academic Cyber Commercial Breakthroughs Stall (including report launch) mini panel
Time: 12:15 - 12:30

Join us for the launch of a new report exploring barriers to commercialisation in academic cyber innovation. A mini panel discusses structural challenges and what can be done to unlock founder potential. Essential for researchers, tech transfer teams, and policy stakeholders.
Speakers:

  • Jess Wenmouth

  • Jess Moffatt,

  • Liz Mullis

  • Paul Cihlar

  • Dan Morley

Viking Exoskeleton: Power. Protection. Precision
Time: 12:45 - 1:15

Discover the Viking Exoskeleton, a cyber-secure wearable designed for defence and high-risk industries. This session dives into its dual focus: enhancing human performance and securing critical data. Perfect for defence tech enthusiasts and investors.
Speaker - Matthew Dickinson

Empowering Tomorrow: ZUAS Support for the Next Generation of Founders
Time: 1:15 - 1:30

An introduction to ZUAS’s startup support model. Learn how this program is enabling emerging founders to turn research into impact. Recommended for academic entrepreneurs, early-stage founders, and institutional partners.

Speakers - Nicholas Duggan & Richard Sharp (Zuas)

Cyber Angels Take Flight: Investing in Tomorrow’s Digital Defenders
Time: 1:45 - 2:00

Launching the Cyber Angels initiative to support and invest in early-stage cybersecurity ventures. Learn how angel investors are fuelling UK cyber innovation. For investors, accelerators, and founders seeking funding.
Speaker - Richard York

Securing Healthcare: A Generative-AI Assistant for Privacy and Protection
Time: 2:15 - 2:30

Explore a generative AI solution designed to enhance data privacy and security in healthcare systems. Ideal for investors those in digital health, cybersecurity, and AI ethics.

Speaker - Tooska Dargahi

Investing in Regional Impact: The Role of CDI and Cyber Focus in Digital Innovation
Time: 2:45 - 3:00

A deep dive into regional funding opportunities via the Centre for Digital Innovation (CDI), The DiSH and Cyber Focus. Understand how these platforms are supporting inclusive, cyber-secure growth for the North West and beyond. For universities, public sector leaders, and tech startups.
Speakers:

  • Paul Cihlar

  • Angel Jimenez-Aranda

  • Simon Cook

  • Mark Rushforth

SARAD: Secure AI for Robust Anomaly Detection
Time: 3:15 - 3:30

Learn how SARAD leverages secure AI to detect anomalies in manufacturing systems. For industrial tech professionals, cybersecurity leads, and applied AI researchers and investors.
Speaker - Tarek Gaber

Ensemble AI-Driven Intelligence Analysis for a Complex World
Time: 4:45 - 5:00

A presentation of ensemble AI models for threat and intelligence analysis. Explore multi-layered data fusion to support complex decision-making. For national security professionals, journalists,  analysts, investors and AI researchers.
Speaker - Kyle Cunliffe

Thursday 3rd July

Integrated Data Analysis: Unlocking Value from Multiple Sources
Time: 10:00 - 10:15

See how integrated analytics can generate insights from diverse data streams. For those in data science, systems integration, and intelligence analysis as well as potential end users and investors.
Speaker - Farima Torabzadeh

Spin It Right: Top Tips for Academic Founders mini panel

Time: 10:30 - 10:45

Hear from experienced spinout founders and support experts on what makes a successful academic startup. Real talk on IP, funding, and team-building.
Speakers

  • Paul Cihlar

  • Paul Boardman,

  • Chris Wynne

  • Sinead McGovern

AI at the Speed of Light: Predicting Solar Storms and Their Earth Impacts in Real Time and DAISY: Data Acquisition, IoT, Security
Time: 11:00 - 11:30

Discover an AI tool that forecasts solar flares and predicts their terrestrial effects in real time. 

Explore DAISY, a platform for secure, real-time data acquisition in IoT-based systems. Especially relevant for edge computing, smart cities, and industrial cyber as well as potential end users and investors.
Speaker - Giles Watkins

Robotic System for Secure and Autonomous Pipe Inspection
Time: 11:30 - 12:00

Learn about a cyber-resilient robot designed for internal inspection of pipelines in critical infrastructure — combining robotics, AI, and cybersecurity in one system. This is a compelling solution for sectors like energy, water, and defence, where downtime and data integrity matter. Of particular interest to investors seeking deep tech with practical applications in national infrastructure, maintenance automation, and industrial cybersecurity
Speaker - Mario Gianni

Purpose, Product, Pivot: Navigating the Startup Path in Cybersecurity Fireside Chat
Time: 12:30 - 12:45

A candid conversation with cyber founders on the real journey of building a company and the importance of the value proposition. What drives them, how they adapt, and what they’ve learned. For founders and those who support them. Investors will gain rare founder perspectives on resilience and market fit.
Speaker - Emma Fadlon

Replicating the Irreplaceable: An Algorithmic Path to Quantum Entanglement
Time: 1:00 - 1:15

Explore a novel algorithm that simulates quantum entanglement behaviours. For quantum computing researchers and those building quantum-inspired systems. A unique opportunity for investors in quantum simulation and hybrid computing.
Speaker - Tara Kalsi

Transforming Legacy Systems with Agile Methods and Cloud-Native Innovation Red Ocelot
Time: 1:30 - 1:45

A showcase of Red Ocelot’s approach to modernising legacy infrastructure using agile, secure, cloud-native design. For digital transformation leads and public sector tech teams. Of interest to investors in gov tech and enterprise infrastructure.
Speaker - Julian Bass

The Hidden Gold: Discovering the True Value of University IP mini panel
Time: 2:00 - 2:15
A discussion on how to better value, protect, and commercialise university-generated intellectual property. For tech transfer teams, researchers, and funders. Investors can discover untapped potential within academic portfolios.
Speakers

  • David Jordan

  • Jess Wenmouth

  • Jessica Moffatt Owen

  • Stephen Casabella

Byte Repair - Local Secure AI-based Automated Program Repair
Time: 2:30 - 2:45

Discover Byte Repair, an AI-driven tool for automated code correction. See how it reduces software downtime and improves development efficiency. For developers, cybersecurity teams, and tool vendors. A high-potential solution for investors in software tooling and DevSecOps.
Speaker - Yiannis Charalambous

Balancing Security and Performance: PQC for Real-World Applications
Time: 3:00 - 3:15

Explore how post-quantum cryptography (PQC) can be implemented in real-world systems without sacrificing performance. For cryptographers, system architects, and policy leaders. Investors will learn where quantum-safe infrastructure is heading next.
Speaker - Yinka John Adgeoke


Venture Studio Zone.

Wednesday 2nd July

Founders. Builders. Investors. This is for you.

Over two days, the Venture Studio Zone - sponsored by EHE Venture Studio and IDS Group - dives into the real mechanics of early-stage company building. From grant-funding hacks and founder f*ckups to legal blind spots and what smart capital really looks like in 2025, this is where the startup playbook gets rebuilt for what’s next.

Both sponsors bring deep operational and strategic insight to the agenda: EHE Venture Studio shares firsthand lessons from building in the trenches, while IDS Group delivers two must-attend sessions on scaling SaaS and understanding the true value in tech deals.

Expect straight-talking panels, tactical advice, and zero fluff - designed for founders who are building, investors who are backing, and operators who are supporting the next generation of breakout companies.

Who should attend:

● Founders building AI-native or VC-ready products

● Investors seeking early signal and sharper execution

● Ecosystem players (legal, finance, ops) looking to get closer to the action

If you're serious about doing the work - and not just talking about it - the Venture Studio Zone is where it happens.

Welcome

Time: 11:15 - 11:30

Speakers:

  • Simon Landi

  • Guy Remond

The First 100 Days: What It Looks Like to Build an AI Startup with a Studio

Time: 11:45 - 12:15
Speakers:

  • Pete Evison

  • Jack Worne

  • Mark Bernstein

  • Dan Reeves

Code, Capability, Chaos: What You’re Really Buying in a Tech Deal with IDS Group

Time: 1:15 - 1:45

How Not to Waste £250K on Your AI MVP

Time: 2:00 - 2:30
Speakers

  • Pete Evison

  • Aleksa Vukotic

  • Dan Reeves

  • Benjamin Martin

Building Smart: Grants, Equity, and the Venture Studio Edge

Time: 2:45 - 3:15
Speakers:

  • Simon Landi

  • Gabriela Isas

  • Hannah Williams

Founder F*ckups

Time: 4:15 - 4:45
Speakers:

  • Simon Landi

  • Guy Remond

  • Gary Fletcher

Thursday 3rd July

Welcome
Time: 10:00 - 10:30

More Than Capital: Why Today’s Founders and Investors Are Betting on Studios
Time: 10:45 - 11:15
Speakers:

  • Simon Landi

  • Guy Remond

  • Neil Vose

  • Andrew Round

The Importance of a Fractional FD in a Start-up
Time: 11:30 - 12:00
Speakers:

  • Simon Landi

  • Jon Davage

  • Anna Kerrane

Follow the Money, How the UK attracts global capital — and why it matters to founders right now.
Time: 12:15 - 12:45
Speakers:

  • Pete Evison

  • Jack Worne

  • Jonathan Crook

  • Angus Young

North of Ordinary: Why the Future of AI Is Being Built Up Here
Time: 1:00 - 1:30
Speakers:

  • Troy Wood

  • Heather Waters

  • Ranvir Singh

  • Alex Jones

The Prompt-Led Builder: How the rise of LLMs is changing the role of the engineer — and what startups need to do to stay ahead.
Time: 1:45 - 2:15
Speakers:

  • Pete Evison

  • Guy Remond

  • Toby Remond

Code, Cloud, and Clarity: The Foundations for Scaling Your SaaS with IDS Group
Time: 2:30 - 3:00