Expo aims to spark Teesside connections

A Teesside business network is preparing to launch a new event designed to bring organisations together and strengthen regional collaboration.

Connect and Collab, created by award-winning entrepreneur Cheryl Spears, will take place at the Riverside Stadium on February 10, bringing businesses of all sizes under one roof for a more interactive and community-focused expo experience. 

Cheryl, who runs Spear-heads, says the event aims to offer “something different” in the local exhibition landscape by encouraging meaningful networking, knowledge-sharing and practical business support.

The expo includes dedicated zones for SMEs, larger companies and food businesses, with stand prices designed to remain accessible for smaller organisations. 

Cheryl, who is the 2024 winner of the Tees Businesswomen Awards Best Newcomer title and Best New Sole Trader at last year’s Best New Tees Business Awards, said: “The Connect and Collab Expo was created to offer something more practical and tailored than a standard business exhibition.

“Rather than just rows of stands, it’s a mix interactive strategic networking, expert talks, and one-to-one knowledge pods that focus on real business challenges, from finance and law to PR and team development.

“I wanted to create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere that encourages genuine business relationship building.

“There’s a clear gap in the region for an expo that blends learning, collaboration and local business promotion, not just selling, but supporting growth.

“By creating a space where companies can learn, connect, and generate leads, the event strengthens the North East business community, and by extension, supports Spear-heads’ vision of helping others succeed through strategic sales and collaboration.

“Hosting a successful expo also positions Spear-heads as a leading connector and enabler for regional business growth.”

Attendees will also have access to a programme of expert talks covering PR, AI, software, SEO, finance and funding, alongside bookable knowledge pods offering 30-minute one-to-one sessions with specialists in areas such as accountancy, team development and legislation.

Networking opportunities will run throughout the day, supported by breakfast, lunch and VIP lounges for premium introductions.

Connect and Collab builds on Cheryl’s wider mission to help businesses grow through community, education and strategic support. 

The event follows the success of her Spear-heads Sales Summit and complements initiatives including Spear-net and The Lunch Lab.

Cheryl added: “The Sales Summit showed that the regional business community is eager for in-person events that go beyond key notes and general networking.

“Events that provide practical and valuable, networking and collaboration.

“Balancing speaker sessions with hands-on interaction and creating structured networking have shaped the Connect and Collab format and this builds on my learning from the Sales Summit.

“The goal is for Connect and Collab to become a flagship annual event for the region.

“We hope that it will grow year on year and establish itself as a must-attend date in the North East business calendar and that it’s practical, collaborative focus sets a new benchmark for local expos.”

Cheryl added: “Businesses can also sponsor the event, with a headline sponsorship available for £1000+VAT and smaller advertising opportunities in the event programme, on digital screens and more.

“Attendees can get tickets for free, with an optional VIP upgrade (£10) that includes exclusive contacts, discounts, and a premium goody bag.”

Information on stands, sponsorship and bookings is available via events@eleven87.co.uk. To buy a ticket for the event, head to Eventbrite here.

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