Taking place from 16 – 20 June, TechNExt is returning for a third time this year and promises to be the biggest and best festival to date!

Attracting over 3,000 people from across the region, the UK and beyond, the week-long programme will bring together those in the region’s tech community; business leaders, tech specialists, academics, public sector employees and tech enthusiasts, to shine a light on all that is great about the burgeoning sector.

While the festival will continue to include a series of community-led fringe events, masterclasses and a jobs fair, the 2025 festival is giving organisations more involvement in how key parts of the festival’s core programme is shaped this year, thanks to the launch of the TechNExt Hubs.

What are TechNExt Hubs?

Our TechNExt Hubs, curated with content from the tech community, are brand new for this year’s festival.

Taking place across the North East, the four themed Hubs will each focus on one key topic, with businesses, academics and the wider tech community invited to shape the programme for each Hub by submitting their session and content ideas.

What are the Hubs for this year?

The four TechNExt Hubs for this year include…

Sustainability Hub – 17 June

Taking place at Energy Central in Blyth, the Sustainability Hub will spotlight how tech can be used to make businesses and communities more sustainable. So, if your organisation is making strides in green technology, the circular economy, renewables or energy efficiency, why not get involved and host a talk, or share the story of your product or service?

Data and AI Hub – 18 June

The Catalyst at Newcastle Helix will throw open its doors to the wider sector for TechNExt as it hosts the festival’s first Data and AI Hub. Sponsored by Accenture, the Hub will provide a deep-dive into the world of Data, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning. Businesses specialising in data and AI are being invited to share insights on the latest advancements and showcase the impact their products and services are having.

Immersive Hub – 19 June

The North East is a leader in immersive technologies, and this Hub – taking place at PROTO, Gateshead - will highlight the latest developments in AR, VR, and mixed reality. So, if you’re working on an exciting immersive project or have expertise in XR technology, submit your content idea and get involved!

Tech Startup Hub – 20 June

The final TechNExt Hub will see startup businesses from across the region descend on Durham. Whether you're looking to share insights on setting up a business, how to secure funding, or building a strong tech team, we’re looking for dynamic and engaging sessions to inspire the region’s next wave of tech entrepreneurs.

Why should I get involved?

By hosting a Hub session, you can:

· Position your business as a leader in your field by running workshops, talks, or demos

· Engage with fellow professionals, potential partners, and future talent

· Gain exposure as part of a high-profile event

· Inspire others, share insights, and contribute to the thriving North East tech scene.

How do I get involved?

TechNExt is for everyone, so no matter what your involvement or interest in the region’s tech sector, we want to hear from you!

So, to submit a Hub event idea, simply complete the form on the website by 14 March, 2025.

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