From the 16^th to the 20^th of June, the North East of England’s biggest tech celebration is back, bringing five days of innovation, inspiration and connection across the region.  

And the best part? TechNExt has something for everyone, whether you are a seasoned tech enthusiast, interested in getting into the sector, or just curious about what is happening in the tech and digital world.

2025 aims to be bigger and better than before, with a wide range of curated showcases, community-led fringe events, workshops and more. This year, the festival is also introducing the TechNExt Hubs, four thematic zones full of workshops, keynote talks and panel discussions.

Interested? Read on to learn more about what to expect from TechNExt 2025.

TechNExt Main Stage

Monday 16^th of June - Crowne Plaza, Newcastle

Kicking off TechNExt 2025, the Main Stage will feature a single stream of thought-provoking talks from a wide range of technology leaders from across the globe. This event is an inspiring exploration of industry insights, innovation and creativity in tech - it is not to be missed!

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The TechNExt Hubs

Tuesday 17^th of June to Thursday 19^th of June – Across the North East

New for 2025, the TechNExt Hubs are focussed around four different themes: sustainability, data and AI, immersive technology, and tech startups. Each hub has a programme of talks, workshops, discussions and networking opportunities, allowing for a deep dive into the focus of each of the themes.  Pick and choose which events from each hub you would like to attend to curate your own schedule – make sure you register to each session to avoid disappointment!  

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TechNExt Industry Dinner

Tuesday 17^th of June – Spanish City, Whitley Bay

Taking place on the coast, this year’s TechNExt Industry Dinner offers a chance for individuals to join peers, tech entrepreneurs and business leaders for an evening of connection and conversation over a three-course dinner. This is a great opportunity to network with some of the top tech experts from across the North East.

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Tech Talent Live

Wednesday 18^th of June – City Hall, Sunderland

One of the most popular events at TechNExt, takes place on Wednesday afternoon in Sunderland. Tech Talent Live is the North East’s largest tech and digital careers fair, connecting individuals with regional tech companies, top training opportunities, job openings and pathways for the future. Whether you are actively looking for a new role, or you just want to see what is out there, come along and make connections.  

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TechNExt Schools Challenge

Friday 20^th of June – The Customs House, South Shields

TechNExt introduced the Schools Challenge for North East school students in 2024 and after the success of last year, they have brought it back to further engage schools with tech employers of the region. Focusing on a key theme, school students between the ages of 9 and 13 will have the opportunity to develop an innovative tech-based solution to solve real-world challenges, with help from North East industry mentors.‍

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Festival Fringe

Throughout the week – Across the North East

The TechNExt Festival Fringe offers a rich variety of community-led events that are open to all, taking place across the North East to showcase the wide range of expertise and knowledge that we have across the region.    

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TechNExt Festival Party

Thursday 19^th of June – BALTIC, Gateshead

Celebrate and unwind at the TechNExt Festival Party taking place at BALTIC on the Gateshead Quayside. This informal celebration brings together festival attendees and tech enthusiasts for a chance to revel in the remarkable achievements of the North East tech sector, catch up with friends and make new connections.  

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How to Get Involved with TechNExt 2025

Of course, you can simply come along and attend TechNExt events, but if you would like to go one step further, here are some ways that you and your organisation can get involved.

Fringe Events

Individuals and organisations can give back to the North East tech sector by hosting a festival fringe event. These events should be free for attendees and should have a clear theme and topic – this is your chance to share key insights about your specialist topics.

Tech Talent Live

There is the opportunity to get host a stall and exhibit at Tech Talent Live, giving North East organisations a chance to showcase their business, chat with tech talent firsthand, share open vacancies and find the right candidates.  

Schools Challenge

Focusing on ‘Tech for Good’ and working with industry mentors, schools and students aged 9 to 13 are invited to join the Schools Challenge which this year is themed around Gaming, Online Safety, the Planet and Cyber and AI.

Pledge & Sponsorship

Signing the TechNExt Pledge is an easy way for your organisation to commit to supporting the North East’s thriving technology sector. It is simple; by signing the pledge you encourage your team members to attend the TechNExt events across the week, giving the time to learn key insights, meet new people and celebrate the region’s tech sector.

There is also the opportunity to sponsor TechNExt festival. Click here for all the information.

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Final Information  

TechNExt 2025 is shaping up to be another brilliant celebration of North East tech. No matter where you are on your tech and digital journey, we hope to see you there.

For more information, please have a look at the TechNExt website or get in touch with the team directly at: getinvolved@technext.co.uk

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