Future-Proofing Businesses: Innovation & Insights for Tomorrow's Challenges

As part of the Cheshire East Research & Development Productivity Improvement Programme (CERDPIP) we held a highly successful and insightful event at Alderley Park for ambitious and progressive Cheshire East businesses looking to develop and grow their business.

The event included talks from headline speakers, networking, 121 discussions with our specialists and the panellists plus demonstrations from The AMRC of some of the IoT technical solutions.

Headline speakers                

Leadership in Change - Helen Tonks MBE, Hydraulics Online

Helen co-founded and built Hydraulics Online into a global brand, mentors SMEs and earned an MBE for her ‘services to business and to exports’.

"Leadership during change requires vision, humility, resilience, and an open, curious mind. I’m looking forward to sharing lessons from my journey and helping businesses in Cheshire East thrive in times of transformation”

Emerging Technologies - Andrew Martin, The AMRC

Andrew Martin leads food, drink and agri-tec innovation at AMRC Cymru, advancing productivity, sustainability and net-zero.

"Innovation is key to driving productivity and achieving sustainability. This event provides a rare opportunity to explore emerging technologies that can give your business a competitive edge."

AI in Business - Rod Howells, BIC Innovation

Rod is a seasoned executive who specialises in helping businesses adopt emerging technologies, particularly AI, to future-proof operations.

"Artificial intelligence isn’t just for tech giants; it’s a tool every ambitious business can leverage to future-proof operations. I’m excited to show attendees how AI can become an enabler for growth."

Feedback from attendees

Really inspiring, lots of useful insights and fantastic connections made!

Great presentations and really insightful, I found each presentation gave me something to think about.

I appreciated all of the speakers today & found their content very interesting. I also made some new contacts after the event. Thank you

High quality, informed speakers

The event was very professional and insightful and a good mix of speakers.  Plus, the venue was ideal.

Well balanced agenda.  Speakers who knew their stuff and delivered it in a relaxed and confident way.

Interesting speakers