Day One Programme
The opening day will include seven engaging policy panel sessions featuring industry-leading speakers and interactive discussions. Each session will run for one hour and offer a unique opportunity to engage with key topics shaping the future of the North.
| Start | Topic |
| 11.30am | Registration opens |
| 12.30pm | Place and Culture Policy Session |
| 12.30pm | Advanced Manufacturing Policy Session |
| 1.50pm | Innovation Policy Session |
| 1.50pm | Transport Policy Session led by Transport for the North |
| 3.30pm | Trade and Investment Policy Session |
| 3.30pm | Net Zero Policy Session |
| 4.50pm | Skills Policy Session |
Policy Session Highlights
Place and Culture
The North’s cultural and heritage assets are pivotal for economic growth and community well-being. This panel session will highlight opportunities across creative industries, green jobs, and the visitor economy to address shared challenges and solidify the North’s position as a hub for place-based growth.
Advanced Manufacturing
The North is primed to lead the UK in advanced manufacturing, leveraging its industrial heritage and innovation clusters. Participants will explore how advancements in robotics, automation, and sustainability can drive growth, enhance resilience, and position the UK as a global manufacturing leader.
Innovation
As a national leader in innovation, the North boasts world-class universities, investment zones and thriving clusters in advanced manufacturing, digital, and energy. The session will explore how collaborative efforts can further develop the North’s innovation ecosystem and enhance its global competitiveness.
Transport – Led by Transport for the North
Transforming transport infrastructure is critical for bridging regional disparities and unlocking economic potential. This session will focus on creating integrated and sustainable solutions to improve connectivity, drive inclusive growth, and contribute to net zero goals.
Trade and Investment
With renewed political priorities and enhanced devolution, the North has an opportunity to scale its trade and investment activities. By leveraging regional collaboration, the North can amplify its profile, attract investment, and deliver economic growth greater than the sum of its parts.
Net Zero
The North’s unique assets position it as a leader in delivering decarbonisation solutions for the UK. This panel session will address challenges such as ageing infrastructure and emissions-intensive industries, exploring how we can foster collaboration to drive sustainable economic growth and reduce regional inequalities.
Skills
Investing in the North’s workforce is essential for addressing productivity challenges and economic inactivity. This session will showcase innovative approaches to closing current and future skills gaps, while inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in the region.
These sessions offer you a chance to:
- Hear from leading experts, political figures, and innovators.
- Collaborate on actionable strategies for the North’s most pressing challenges.
- Contribute to shaping solutions that will be presented to the entire Convention on Day Two.
Day Two Programme
Day Two will feature high-profile keynote speakers from government, business, and academia. These sessions will provide thought-provoking insights, challenge perspectives, and inspire new approaches to unlocking the North’s potential.
| Start | Topic | |
| 8.30am | Registration and Refreshments | |
| 9.30am | Welcome to Convention of the North 2025 | |
| 10.05am | Senior HM Opposition Speaker | |
| 10.25am | Panel Session – Opportunities for Northern Collaboration | |
| 11.10am | Refreshment Break and Networking | |
| 11.55am | Senior HM Government Speaker | |
| 12.20pm | Lunch and Networking | |
| 1.40pm | Afternoon Opening Session | |
| 1.45pm | Key Theme – The North as a Growth Engine for UK plc | |
| 2.10pm | Panel Session – Gamechangers for the North | |
| 3.10pm | Closing Remarks |
Fringe Events
Be sure to keep an eye out for fringe events on the 27th and 28th February. These activities will provide additional opportunities to network, collaborate, and explore ideas shaping the future of the North.
Date: Thursday, 27th February Start 5.30pm – Close 10pm
Venue: Chew’s Yard | 103-111 Market St W, Preston PR1 2HB (Garden Entrance)
Why Attend?
This is your opportunity to:
- Shape Policy: Contribute to actionable strategies for the North’s future.
- Learn from Experts: Gain insights from leading voices across industries and sectors.
- Build Connections: Forge meaningful relationships with leaders who share your commitment to the North’s success.
Extend Your Stay
While in Lancashire, take the chance to explore its rich offerings. Visit visitlancashire.com to discover accommodation options, places to eat, and top attractions in the area.