From 13 June – 1 July 2016, thousands of businesses from across the world will descend on Exhibition Centre Liverpool for three weeks of events, networking and deal making as part of this year’s International Festival for Business.

A global marketplace that brings together leaders of industry from all corners of the world, the International Festival for Business is the UK’s biggest business event and offers organisations in the North East a unique opportunity to secure new customers, partners, and to exchange ideas and inspiration.

An evaluation of the 2014 International Festival for Business showed that companies secured £280 million of investment as a direct result of the event.

The festival is supported by the UK government and over its three-week run delivers a series of events, talks, workshops and dinners clustered round three themes; manufacturing, creative and digital, and energy and environment.

Colin Bell, Business Growth Director at the North East LEP said: “The International Festival for Business provides the North East with a huge opportunity. As a meeting place for the world’s business elite, it’s a place to network, share ideas but importantly, win and secure new business.

“It’s vital we have a strong presence at the event so we can showcase the world-class businesses and skills in our region. From creative and digital to offshore and marine, we are leading the way in key sectors. The advancements we are making in science and healthcare make us a world leader and the International Festival for Business is the perfect place for us to shout about our achievements.”

7,000 face-to-face meetings with potential new customers are expected to take place during this year’s event.

Festival Director Ian McCarthy said: “The festival will offer very concrete opportunities for companies to win new business from potential clients and customers from right across the UK and world.

“We know through the independent evaluation carried out that IFB2014 was directly responsible for some £280m of new sales and deals and our ambition is to help businesses achieve even more value.”

This year’s festival also includes an inspiring series of talks from speakers including former South African President FW De Klerk, key architect of the UK Northern Powerhouse, Lord O’Neil and CEO of Severn Trent Water, Liv Garfield. The Blue Skies series will take place at the end of each day at the Festival.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Britain is open for business, so for anyone involved in enterprise the International Festival for Business is the place to be. Make sure you’re there to make the most of it.”

To secure your place at the International Festival for Business 2016, visit www.ifb2016.com