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SMEs growing together 

Location: CGI Leeds office, 1 Whitehall Quay, Leeds LS1 4HR

Date and time: 21 September 2026, 08:00 - 10:30

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SMEs growing together 

Location: CGI Leeds office, 1 Whitehall Quay, Leeds LS1 4HR

Date and time: 21 September 2026, 08:00 - 10:30

Leeds_Digital_Festival_Logo_LDF_Landscape (1)

 

Join us for a dedicated networking session for SMEs, public sector organisations and industry partners committed to strengthening the regional business ecosystem.

Whether you're looking to raise your profile, gain insights into working with larger organisations or expand your network, this is an opportunity to connect, collaborate and grow together. 


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What to expect

Hear from senior leaders across the business community, as well SMEs who will share their experiences of collaborating with larger organisations.

Building on CGI's recent research into the role SMEs play in accelerating digital transformation, we will explore how SMEs, large enterprises, and public sector organisations are all approaching partnerships. Together, we will strengthen Leeds' SME ecosystem – opening doors to collaboration and procurement. 

  • Learn about the SME ecosystem to navigate challenges and grasp opportunities.
  • Hear first-hand from your peers how to build and leverage stronger relationships.
  • Connect and collaborate with local SMEs and other regional representatives.
  • Exchange ideas and start conversations that could lead to future collaboration. 

Who should attend?

This event is for innovative SMEs, particularly those working in areas like health technology, AI, software development, ERP, Salesforce and digital enablement. It will also appeal to organisations interested in building relationships with the regional SME community. 

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The partnership imperative: How ecosystems are reshaping digital government

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Agenda

  • 08:00 Arrival - Networking and refreshments 

  • 08:30 Welcome and introductions 

  • 08:40 SME spotlight – Two local SMEs share their experiences of collaborating with larger organisations, offering practical insights and lessons learned. 

  • 09:20 Panel discussion – Join representatives from CGI, Leeds Business Anchors, Leeds City Council, NHSE to discuss supporting SMEs and strengthening local business networks. 

  • 10:00 Networking and collaboration  

  • 10:30 Event close
Fiona_Bolam

 Fiona Bolam

 Chief Officer for Economy and Skills – Leeds City Council

 Fiona is the Chief Officer for Economy and Skills at Leeds City Council and has extensive experience of economic development in local, regional and national contexts.  Fiona is responsible for the development and implementation of Leeds Economic Vision strategy, the Leeds Inclusive Growth Strategy, Employment and Skills, Inward Investment, International Relations and Destination Management and Business Support.  Fiona joined Leeds City Council in 2018 after working in the Civil Service including, experience of labour market and working age benefits policy and on large scale government transformation and change programmes.  Fiona has also worked in regional economic development and in university research consultancy. Fiona has a PhD in the social and political history of Bradford. 
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 Mark Mildren

 Head of Innovation Programmes & Partnerships - Nexus

 Mark Mildren is Head of Innovation Programmes & Partnerships at Nexus, the University of Leeds’ innovation hub, where he leads programmes, partnerships and initiatives that support entrepreneurship and innovation across West Yorkshire. With more than 20 years’ experience spanning innovation, business growth and the creative industries, he has helped design nationally recognised programmes, support startup growth and build high-performing partnerships across academia, business and the public sector. Mark is a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses alumnus, a Business Insider ‘42 Under 42’ honouree and a two-time Institute of Directors award nominee, he is passionate about connecting people, ideas and opportunities to create lasting impact. 
Gareth Davies OG

 Gareth Davies

 Director Client Engagement, TrueNorth IT

 Originally from a technical background, Gareth is one of the three founders of TrueNorth – together with Steve Drake and Christian Waters. TrueNorth is a Leeds based consultancy founded in 2014, specialising in solutions based on Microsoft Dynamics 365. They have a broad customer base spanning both public and private sector.  

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Discover all CGI events at Leeds Digital Festival 2026

As Headline Sponsor of Leeds Digital Festival 2026, CGI is excited to launch a series of events throughout the programme. We’re shining a light on the projects, partnerships and people trailblazing in Leeds and helping to grow the region.

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As one of the world’s largest IT and business consulting services firms, CGI has a strong and growing presence across Yorkshire, with offices in Leeds, Sheffield and York. We were proud to have been recognised as a 2026 Top Company to work for in Leeds by LinkedIn, highlighting our commitment to the region.

CGI is delighted to be Headline Sponsor of Leeds Digital Festival 2026.

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