A Morning of Networking, Skills and Business Support at North Durham Business Network
It was great to see businesses and organisations come together for the latest North Durham Business Network meeting at The Greenhouse in Annfield Plain.
Following the morning’s networking over tea and coffee, attendees had the opportunity to take part in discussions around digital and AI adoption, employability and skills, and funding and business support.
Exploring AI and digital technology
Nathan Rowland from Sunderland Software City led the discussion around digital and AI adoption, looking at how businesses can make use of technology to improve efficiency and support growth.
The session explored AI adoption, system automation and digital tools, with plenty of opportunity for businesses to ask questions and consider how these technologies could be applied in their own organisations.
It was a practical discussion, with attendees sharing their own experiences and exploring some of the opportunities and challenges that come with adopting new technology.
Developing skills and supporting future talent
The Employability and Skills discussion was led by Georgia Pirelli-Russell, Business Development Consultant at Derwentside College, alongside Durham County Council’s Employability Team.
The conversation focused on how employers can work with education providers to support workforce development, apprenticeships and industry placements. It was a chance to discuss the skills businesses need and the different ways employers can connect with local education and employment support.
Funding, grants and business support
Ian Wood, Business Growth Adviser at the North East Growth Hub, led the funding, grants and business support discussion alongside Lisa Wall, Business Engagement and Account Manager at Business Durham.
The session explored the different opportunities available to businesses looking to grow, invest and develop, including relevant funding and support.
Ian also shared insight into the North East Growth Hub’s Made Smarter programme, which supports manufacturers to adopt digital technology.
With specialists on hand, businesses were able to ask questions, discuss their own challenges and find out more about the support that could be relevant to them.
Making connections
As well as the focused discussions, the morning was all about meeting people, sharing ideas and making useful connections.The informal and interactive format gave attendees plenty of opportunities to continue conversations, learn from one another and connect with people who could offer advice, support or new opportunities.
And to round off the morning, everyone could enjoy an informal pizza brunch – giving attendees even more time to chat and get to know fellow businesses.
A big thank you to The Greenhouse in Annfield Plain for hosting us and providing a great space for the network to meet.
Join us at the next North Durham Business Network
If you missed this one, there are more opportunities to get involved.
The next North Durham Business Network meeting takes place on 13 November.
Register now to join the conversation, make new connections and find out more about the support available to your business.
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