Invest Newcastle has virtually showcased the region to tech firms in India keen to trade and invest in the UK market.
Oliver Ballhatchet, the British Deputy High Commissioner who represents the UK Government in Chennai, visited Newcastle earlier this year and was impressed by the life sciences, digital technology, and renewable energy sectors in the region.
Mr Ballhatchet pledged to bring a delegation of businesses to the North East, prompting a virtual event to showcase the region.
Despite not being able to show off tech strengths in person, the virtual event saw almost 30 businesses sign up to new explore opportunities, learn why the region is a leading business destination and hear of the support available to enter the UK market.
Invest Newcastle brought together speakers to give an overview of the region’s assets, capabilities and strengths in data, immersive technologies and the fintech sector.
Panelists included Mr Ballhatchet, Jen Hartley, director from Invest Newcastle, Steve Caughey, director of UK National Innovation Centre for Data, Alex Cook, innovation manager at Proto and Dawn Dunn, innovation manager with Dynamo North East.
Mr Ballhatchet said: “Newcastle is a great city with a positive, collaborative and welcoming vibe. This virtual event was a fantastic way to showcase everything they have to offer, giving international investors one of the warmest welcomes in the UK. I am excited about the potential of this event in opening doors for further collaboration between India and Newcastle.”
Ms Hartley said: “We are home to a thriving digital and tech ecosystem; this was an opportunity to showcase Newcastle within a UK context to a ready-made audience actively considering expansion in the UK or Europe.
“We love showing off our great city to potential investors and last year we welcomed many high-profile leaders and businesses from across the world, hosting more than 30 inward investment visits.
“Due to the current environment we can’t do this in person anymore, but this virtual event was a great way to help businesses feel part of our network and understand our offer.”
