Hartlepool College of Further Education was turned into a networking hub earlier this week when the event completely sold out its 50 exhibitor stands, drawing a strong crowd of professionals, entrepreneurs and business owners.
The Expo was delivered in partnership between Hartlepool Business Forum and Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth Team, with Harrison Smith of Azalea Wealth Management representing the Forum and Principal Economic Growth Officer Amey-Rose McGrogan leading delivery on behalf of the Council.
Attendees benefitted from vital resources, dedicated business support services and three high-profile panel sessions featuring leading figures like Origin People & Culture, award-winner Graeme Cochrane of GLC Projects and members of the Forum’s steering group.
Harrison said: “To see all 50 exhibitor stands fully occupied and the venue packed with energy at our first-ever Expo is a huge achievement for Hartlepool.
“The response from our local business community has been absolutely fantastic, highlighting an incredible depth of talent, from ambitious start-ups to established organisations.
“I’d like to thank Hartlepool College of Further Education for being such a fantastic host venue, and Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth Team for their support in helping us bring this event to life. Working in partnership has been key to the success of the Expo and gives us a phenomenal foundation to build on as we look towards an even bigger and better event in 2027.”
The tremendous momentum generated by the summer expo is now being directed toward the town’s huge corporate celebration, the Hartlepool Business Awards, on Thursday, October 15 at Hardwick Hall.
Building on the enthusiasm from the local business community, organisers have officially announced that the deadline for award nominations has been extended until July 6.
This extension gives local enterprises a final opportunity to secure their place in the spotlight.
Forum steering group chair Simon Corbett, founder of Orangebox Training Solutions, strongly urged everyone to seize this moment and get their applications in before the new deadline.
Simon said: “The expo proved beyond doubt that Hartlepool is home to some exceptional business talent and innovation.
“Winning or being shortlisted at the Hartlepool Business Awards can completely transform your business profile, just as it did for GLC Projects and it was fantastic to hear the story about the journey Graeme has been on.
“I urge every business owner, sole trader and entrepreneur who felt the inspiration at our expo to nominate themselves or a peer by July 6. Let’s celebrate the incredible success stories driving our town forward.”
The extended July 6 deadline represents a unique chance to celebrate your team’s hard work, gain widespread recognition and keep the spirit of collaboration alive ahead of October’s grand celebration at Hardwick Hall.
*Enter or learn more about the Business Awards here at: www.hartlepoolbusinessforum.co.uk/hartlepool-business-awards
