Apply to the TechXcelerate Sprint here.

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Industrial sectors like construction, manufacturing, agriculture, and utilities are the backbone of the North East economy. Yet many businesses still face challenges when it comes to working efficiently, staying competitive, and supporting the people that power their operations.

That’s where emerging technologies like 5G and immersive tools come in — offering exciting new ways to optimise processes, connect workforces, and futureproof operations. This May, we’re inviting individuals and businesses to join TechXcelerate: a two-day industrial innovation sprint designed to explore how these technologies can help solve real-world problems and drive smart, sustainable growth across key industries.

Participants will take part in expert-led insight sessions, hands-on tech demonstrations, creative group challenges, and collaborative activities; all leading toward the development of a concept and a live pitch to industry leaders. You can click here to apply.

‍The event takes place on 13–14 May 2025, hosted in the 5G Immersive Lab, right in the heart of Newcastle’s Eldon Square.

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About TechXcelerate

Join us for a fully funded 2-day innovation sprint where cutting-edge technology meets real-world industrial challenges.

The event brings together industry leaders, technologists and SMEs to co-design practical solutions for the future of work. There is no need to come with a fully formed idea, come with a concept or just a challenge area and our team will guide you through the rest. The sprint centres around two core opportunity areas:

1. ‍Smart Operations – exploring how technologies like automation, data, and real-time connectivity can help businesses work faster, smarter, and more efficiently. ‍
2. Connected Workforce – examining how immersive learning, remote tools, and digital systems can better support people in their roles and close critical skills gaps.

Apply to the TechXcelerate Sprint here.

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What to Expect

Selected participants will gain access to the full sprint experience, including hands-on exposure to immersive equipment, 5G-enabled tools, and sector-specific insights. With support from leading experts participants will work to develop a practical concept that responds to one of the challenge areas.

Day One

The 13th of May focuses on context setting, tech exploration, and early-stage ideation. Participants will take part in facilitated ideation sessions and form or join teams based on shared interests.

Day Two

On day two, the 14th of May, the sprint shifts into concept development and pitching. With continued mentor support, each team will refine their idea into a clear, three-minute pitch delivered to a panel of industry experts who will offer feedback and explore potential next steps.

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Who Should Apply?

TechXcelerate is open to:

• Tech SMEs looking to explore industrial markets.
• Industry SMEs interested in digital transformation
• Individuals with early-stage ideas or a desire to collaborate.

Whether you want to work alone, coming as a business, partnering with another organisation, or hoping to be matched with others, you’re welcome to join.

You don’t need a fully-formed idea to take part, only curiosity, energy, and a willingness to experiment. This is a unique opportunity to get ahead of the curve, connect with others driving innovation in the region, and take practical steps toward smarter ways of working.

Apply to the TechXcelerate Sprint here.

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Further Information

If you have any further questions, please get in touch with Innovation Manager, Jenna Ingoe, by emailing: jenna.ingoe@sunderlandsoftwarecity.com

The 5G Immersive Lab is a cutting-edge space designed to help businesses experiment with immersive and 5G-enabled technologies. From augmented and virtual reality to ultra-fast, low-latency connectivity, the lab gives SMEs the tools and support they need to explore new solutions, test ideas, and reimagine how their business can work. Learn more about the 5G Immersive Lab here.