Durham hosts Gala for would-be entrepreneurs

The Gala Theatre is staging the Durham International Festival of Enterprise on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 28 and March 1.

The packed schedule at Durham’s largest entrepreneur event features talks on the first day from some of the leading names in business from across the region, including former international rugby player Rory Underwood MBE, serial entrepreneur Ammar Mirza CBE and Fentimans drinks’ export director Piero Alberici.

The second day will see more in-depth workshops be available for businesses, full of practical advice hints and tips on everything from sales and marketing to finance and funding, and international trade.

Speaking about the event, Simon Goon at Business Durham said: “To attract such influential speakers is a clear sign that this event will raise the profile of Durham as a place where business is done.

“We’re delighted to be working with Durham University on this event celebrating enterprise, a vital part of Durham’s economic prosperity.”

Vince Robson, who manages Enterprise at Durham University and conceived the Festival idea said: “The Festival will provide an excellent opportunity for our students, staff and alumni to enhance their learning and engage with a diverse business community.

“We have developed a programme that is highly inspirational and rich in entrepreneurial content.”

Seaham-based Great Annual Savings will be headline sponsors for the event, with other confirmed sponsors including the Department for International Trade, Clive Owen LLP and Endeavour Partnership.

Tickets for the festival, organised by the BE Group, are available free of charge via the event website www.durhamfestivalofenterprise.co.uk