LEVELUP at 2 day virtual event, Derry Strabane Enterprise Week, 21-22 April

When and where is it on?

LEVELUP 2021 is a FREE two day hybrid event, taking place on 21-22 APRIL 2021 as part of Derry and Strabane Enterprise Week

How many years has it been going?

This is the first year for LEVELUP although it is a follow-on event from LineUP which took place in March 2020.

What was the inspiration to start it?

The pandemic has brought many changes and has had an enormous impact on us all. If we’re to thrive in a post-pandemic society and economy – whether as individuals, organisations or regions, then we too must change and adapt. The event will explore innovation and best practice locally and from around the world with the aim of inspiring that change, sparking creativity, encouraging entrepreneurship and economic growth.

What exciting things can people look forward to?

A series of inspirational sessions featuring leading key speakers and panel discussions on 6 core themes:

What’s so smart about Smart Cities, Places and Rural Innovation?

Future of Retail & the High St: Last chance saloon or a new renaissance?

What’s the Big Deal about Innovation and Entrepreneurship?

Health and Wellness post-pandemic

Social Purpose – what’s the social mission for your business?

Diversity and Inclusion – From Talk to Action

A pitch competition for early stage NI startups, LEVELUP 2021 where up to 14 early-stage innovative digital / tech startups will compete for a £2k cash prize.

An early-evening Speed Networking event on April 21st

What opportunities are on offer for those attending?

The opportunity to learn about and be inspired by innovative and creative people, businesses and initiatives (both local and international) and to be empowered to embrace creativity and entrepreneurship as we shape and rebuild our post-pandemic society.

Following the panel discussions with a diverse line-up of entrepreneurs, experts, thought leaders and innovators, attendees will be invited to engage with the panel and participate in a Q&A.

Who will be speaking?

Key speakers will include:

Izzy Obeng – Entrepreneur, business coach and professional speaker leading Foundervine

Ben Scott Robinson, Co-founder of Small Robot Company

Devika Wood, Leading UK entrepreneur and founder of I am Arla

Philip McLaughlin, Client Manager, ESRI Ireland

John Hoyle, Founder of Sook, a company that reactivates empty spaces

Liz Choonara, Head of Entrepreneurship at leading UK Charity CRISIS

Joe Richardson and Venetia Hulse from Corporate Innovation Consultancy L Marks

Christine White, Head of Business, Diversity Mark NI

In addition, the panel discussions will feature a diverse range of experts, thought leaders and innovators.

What tips would you give to people attending to get the most out of it?

Attendees are encouraged to come along with an open mind to be inspired by people that have created opportunity, economic growth and initiated real change. Also, to get the most out of the sessions, to engage with the speakers and panelists by participating in the Q&A sessions and to avail of the opportunity to make new connections.

How can people book tickets / when does it usually sell out?

Tickets are FREE and can be booked for either individual (or all sessions)

Smart Cities, Places and Rural Innovation

Retail and High Street

Entrepreneurship & Innovation

Health & Wellness

Social Change

Diversity & Inclusion

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