Sunderland will play host to its first ever business festival next month to celebrate the "dynamic" businesses based in the city.
Taking place between October 4 and 8, the City of Sunderland Business Festival aims to shine a spotlight on companies and the opportunities they present to local people.
Residents will have the chance to find out about job opportunities, while there will also be speeches and sessions from "world-class" speakers.
Read more: Go here for more Sunderland news and updates from Sunderland Live
The event is being delivered by Sunderland Business Partnership, a collective of more than 50 businesses from, or with, an interest in the city. Sunderland City Council have also sponsored the event.
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.
“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.”
While there will be an emphasis on Sunderland's businesses, many of the discussions will appeal to people from outside the city.
Furthermore, leading experts on a regional, national and global level will be part of the line up for business focused events.
Residents attending the recruitment fair at the Stadium of Light will be supported with information on training options, job opportunities and guidance.
The Bridges Shopping Centre will feature a line up of sessions including speed careers “dating”, an entrepreneurs day and a spotlight on homegrown businesses which started life as a hobby and have become hugely successful.
“It was very important for the Bridges to be part of the festival and to stage our own programme of events,” said Karen Eve, centre manager at the Bridges.
“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 take part in the festival, either by attending events and virtual seminars or by showcasing their vacancies at the Recruitment Fair.
Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, 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.”
