The first day kicked off with an exclusive launch event for Sunderland Business Partnership members. This was followed by a panel discussion exploring the North Economy. Speakers included Mauricio Armellini from The Bank of England, John McCabe from the North East Chamber of Commerce, Martin McTague from the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and Henry Kippin from the North East Combined Authority.

In the afternoon there was a session led by North East Screen outlining the opportunities for businesses across the region to become involved in the exciting world of film and TV.

Day two began with a business breakfast at the Beacon of Light with a panel discussion focussing on Women in Leadership.

Expo Sunderland also kicked off the first day of its Delivering the Future City conference, featuring a series of keynote sessions, guided city tours, round table discussions and delegate networking. And there was a Digital Marketing Masterclass from the University of Sunderland.

In the evening the popular networking concept ‘The Ladies Collective’ hosted an event at Lookers Nissan, Sunderland.

As well as the second day of the Delivering the Future City conference, the Wednesday also featured a workshop looking at the role of social enterprises.

In the evening, there was The Business of Football, an energetic and insightful discussion with senior leaders from Sunderland AFC, Hummel UK and Fanatics, giving a unique glimpse into how exciting business partnerships and innovation have captured the imagination of fans.

Day four saw headline speakers social media pioneer Alex Partridge, TV architect George Clarke and Hairy Biker Si King take to the stage at the recently opened Sheepfolds Stables for fire-side chats with former BBC Look North newsreader Jeff Brown.

Following that session, there was an event showcasing business support, with a series of short presentations and a ‘marketplace’ where attendees could chat to organisations who can provide advice, support and funding to businesses.

The final day of the festival included a strategy masterclass delivered by North East BIC and a collaborative, multi-stakeholder workshop, bringing together University of Sunderland students, local retailers and businesses to co-create a futureproofed High Street.

The day was wrapped up with the launch of Wine on the Wear, a networking event at Sweeney Miller Law’s Sunderland head office.