Lancashire businesses look to the future at Tech Lancashire event

Businesses from across Lancashire came together at Accrington Stanley’s Wham Stadium for a special Tech Lancashire event exploring how technology and innovation can unlock new opportunities for growth.

Organised by Hyndburn Council, the free-to-attend event brought businesses, innovators and technology professionals together to share ideas, make new connections and look at some of the opportunities available to businesses across the county.

The event opened with a welcome from the mayor of Hyndburn, Councillor Noordad Aziz, before attendees heard from the Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) and Professor Miranda Barker from RedCAT Group about the support available to Lancashire businesses.

One of the highlights of the day was an interactive panel discussion exploring the changing role of technology in business and the opportunities it is creating across Lancashire.

Led by MC Cat Mawdesley from Northern Reach, the panel featured Dan Knowles, founder of Northern Reach; Richard Singleton, founder of whY-us? Marketing; Cath Rogan, founder of Smart Garment People and Loombreakers; Joe Murray, founder of Small Business Software; and Lee Fogg, Director of 3D 360.

The panellists shared their experiences of using and developing technology, with the conversation covering a wide range of issues facing businesses today, including the rapidly growing impact of artificial intelligence and how companies can make the most of emerging technologies.

The discussion was then opened to the audience, giving attendees the chance to put their questions directly to the panel and sparking a lively debate around technology, innovation and the future of business.

Cllr Munsif Dad, leader of Hyndburn Council, said: “It was a fascinating and really inspiring event, and it was fantastic to see so many businesses coming together to talk about the future.

“There are so many exciting opportunities for Lancashire businesses to embrace new technology, innovate and grow, and events like Tech Lancashire are a great way to share ideas, learn from one another and make the connections that can help turn those opportunities into reality.”

Alongside the speakers and panel discussion, attendees had plenty of opportunity to network over lunch and meet organisations providing support to businesses across Lancashire.

Exhibitors on the day included Growth Agency, Made Smarter, AMRC, RedCAT Group and 3D 360, giving businesses the chance to find out more about the expertise, programmes and support available to help them innovate and grow.

Tech Lancashire formed part of Hyndburn Council’s ongoing work to support the local economy, encourage innovation and connect businesses with the opportunities and expertise available across Lancashire.