TechJam launches to showcase Tees Valley

When Shak Asghar dreams, he dreams big.

“It was always my vision to create a ‘Wrestlemania’ or ‘SuperBowl’ style event for business,” said Shak, the CEO of LikeUs.

That vision has come to fruition.

Called TechJam, it is the first event of its kind in the Tees Valley and promises to be one of the biggest – and most enjoyable - business gatherings this year.

Backed by the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority, it aims to show how digital technology can enhance businesses.

Around 1,000 guests are expected to enjoy what Shak believes is a “world class” lineup of speakers rivalling anything in the UK.

Speakers include branding and marketing expert James Peach, who has worked for Uber and Vinted, along with data scientist Neil Martin, the former Head of Strategy for both Ferrari and McLaren’s F1 teams.

Former Dragons’ Den investor Piers Linney will also talk, and Shak added: “Our keynote speakers are all next level, headlining major global events this year like the London Tech Expo.

“To attract them shows the lure and potential this region now has.”

And TechJam’s aim is to compete with similar events that typically exist solely in major cities like London.

According to Shak, the event is an opportunity to showcase the area’s growing reputation as a major business and investment destination – especially in its booming digital and tech sectors.

“If we really want to ‘talk up Teesside’, then this is the perfect chance to do that,” added Shak, who said there’s already been “positive” demand for tickets.

“We’ve had a wave of interest from outside the Tees Valley, which shows that there’s not only interest in this area from potential inward investors but also in the event itself.

“TechJam aims to give local companies valuable insights into how technological and digital

transformation can benefit their business. However, if it can also help showcase this area, that will benefit the entire local business landscape.”

The project is delivered on behalf of the Tees Valley Mayor and Combined Authority and is fully funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

However, one thing Shak has been determined to do is inject some fun into proceedings.

Besides speakers and networking opportunities, there will be a plethora of quirkier activities, from arcade machines to a DJ-led silent disco.

“With TechJam, we want to reframe what a business event can be. We want it to be fresh, positive and fun,” added Shak.

TechJam takes place at Middlesbrough Town Hall on November 6. Click here for free tickets.

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