The stage is set for another groundbreaking event in the water sector, as Northumbrian Water’s Innovation Festival gears up for its ninth iteration in 2025. With registration now open, the water company is rallying innovators, businesses, and thought-leaders to converge under the theme of “regeneration.” The goal? To fortify the region’s infrastructure, ecosystems, and economies for a more resilient future. This isn’t just another conference; it’s a call to action, a challenge to the status quo, and a platform for sparking debate and driving sustainability.
The festival, free to attend, will host a melting pot of minds from science, technology, energy, communications, and more. The aim? To cook up innovative solutions that can drive the water sector forward. Previous festivals have birthed ideas that have made significant impacts, both regionally and nationally. Take the National Underground Asset Register, for instance. Born at the 2018 festival, this initiative has been rolled out by the UK Government and is estimated to boost economic growth by at least £400 million annually. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation, and a glimpse into what the 2025 festival might achieve.
This year’s theme, “regeneration,” is particularly timely. The water industry is under scrutiny, and rightly so. We need to do better, and the Innovation Festival is the perfect platform to brainstorm and implement new ideas. From decreasing storm overflows to fixing leakage, the challenges are vast, but so are the opportunities. Angela MacOscar, Head of Innovation at Northumbrian Water, is brimming with excitement and anticipation. “This year’s theme of regeneration is a particularly exciting one,” she says. “The whole event is set to take on a strong focus on sustainability from the inside out.”
But the festival isn’t just about the big ideas. It’s also about nurturing the next generation of innovators. The Young Citizens Work Experience Festival will see 650 students from across the region gain skills and career knowledge in the water sector and other STEM-based industries. It’s a chance for these young minds to dip their toes into the world of work and explore future career paths.
Moreover, the festival will host an event as part of Northumbrian Water’s ongoing commitment to support employment and access to work. This innovative experience will provide skills workshops and practical support to help attendees secure jobs in the water industry and supply chain. It’s a collaborative effort to share opportunities and foster growth.
The festival, running from the 7th to the 10th of July at Newcastle Racecourse, is expected to see over 2000 attendees. And as in previous years, there’ll be a host of celebrity guests, entertainment, music, and activities. It’s not just about the work; it’s about the community, the connections, and the collective drive towards a more sustainable future.
So, if you’re an innovator, a business, or a thought-leader with a passion for the water sector, don’t miss out. Register now and be part of the conversation. Let’s challenge norms, spark debate, and drive development in the water, sanitation, and drainage sector. The future is here, and it’s time to make a splash.