We were blown away by the response to our first ever Summit last year.
What began as a small idea – inviting a handful of customers to Leeds to hear about new developments at The Data City – turned into so much more. Over 70 delegates joined us for an afternoon of data, insights, success stories, discussion, networking and drinks.
With the success of The Data City Summit in 2024, we’re excited to announce the event will be returning this November – and we’d love you to be involved.
What is The Data City Summit?
The Data City Summit isn’t just an event, it’s a celebration of how data can transform the world. Join us in the heart of Leeds for the second instalment, where our community of data pioneers will come together to showcase their ground-breaking work.
At this exclusive event, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from the researchers, strategists, investors, policymakers and innovators using real-time data to map the UK’s fastest-growing sectors — from deep tech to net zero, advanced manufacturing to emerging AI.
Plus, free lunch and drinks!
Agenda Overview
12:00–12:30 – Arrival & Lunch
Warm up, settle in, and meet your fellow attendees.
12:45–13:00 – Welcome Talk by Paul Connell
The big why. Paul opens the summit with his trademark mix of honesty, ambition and a hint of rebellion. Expect energy, not small talk.
13:00–13:20 – What’s New at The Data City? | Alex Craven
Get under the hood with our CEO. From platform improvements to our mission progress (hello, SIC replacement), Alex shares how we’re changing how organisations see the economy—in real-time.
13:40–14:00 – Metro Dynamics & The Data City: “Shaping Regional Economies: The University Industrial Strategy”
A practical look at how we’re moving from theory to action. With Fiona Tuck from Metro Dynamics and The Data City team, this session covers how universities are becoming anchors for local industrial strategy—and how data is key to making it work.
️14:10–14:30 – ADS: “Mapping the UK’s Defence Economy”
When it comes to defence, understanding the sector isn’t just policy – it’s security. Hear how ADS are using our data to bring clarity to this critical industry and support innovation and procurement strategies across the UK.
14:30 – Tea Break
Refuel. Recap. Reconnect.
14:30–14:50 – Agency by Agency: “Creative Powerhouse: giving shape to the UK’s marketing, advertising, creative and media agency sector”
Agency by Agency provides intelligence to marketing, advertising, creative and media agency owners, investors and the wider agency sector. Their mapping of 25,500 UK agencies is the only comprehensive data set on the UK’s marketing agency sector and is creating a stir. They’re here today to talk about their journey, how they’ve built a UK first and what challenges they’ve overcome on the way.
15:00–15:20 – CIMSPA: “From Building Trust to Driving Change”
Sport and physical activity are more than recreation – they’re critical to wellbeing and local economic growth. Learn how CIMSPA, powered by The Data City and Lightcast, is adapting to devolution, building local trust and driving national impact.
15:30–15:50 – techUK: “Local Digital Index 2025″
See it here first. This year’s Local Digital Index reveals where digital capability is thriving and where action is needed. This isn’t just a sneak peek; it’s a strategic preview for anyone serious about digital growth.
16:00–16:30 – Industrial Strategy Panel:
With voices from across government, regional strategy, defence, tech and academia this panel doesn’t just talk about industrial strategy. They’re building it.
Hosted by Paul Swinney with speakers from Oxford Economics & Local Government expect insight, challenge and ideas you’ll want to steal.
16:30–17:00 – The Data City: Mapping the global economy, how we did it
How does The Data City approach work across the Atlantic? The Data City’s, CTO, Tom Forth brings the early signs and sharp insights from our global research. If you’re into data, geography, or rethinking the global economy – don’t miss it.
17:00 – Close & Drinks
Time to celebrate the ideas, the breakthroughs, and the brilliant people who made them happen.
Who’s it for?
This isn’t just for data analysts or economists. It’s for regional policymakers and strategists looking for a sharper lens on their economies. For investors and corporate finance professionals searching for the next growth opportunity. For trade associations and business groups ready to better understand and support their members.
For anyone tired of patchy datasets and outdated codes.
And especially… it’s for anyone building the future.
Want to attend?
Spots are limited and interest is high. Reach out to your contact at The Data City or get in touch via our website to reserve your place.
