Leeds Digital Festival returns in virtual format
Leeds Digital Festival returns for its fifth annual festival next week, in a virtual format with online events running from Monday 20 April to Friday 1 May.
The organisers of the festival took the decision to split this year’s event between the spring and autumn in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The virtual festival now has over 70 online events, with the physical events taking place between 21 September – 2 October 2020.
The week will kick off with an exclusive Tech Nation Talks event, where attendees will receive an in depth review of the latest Tech Nation report.
Other highlights include a partnership between BT and Google Digital Garage, who are hosting online workshops on improving digital marketing strategies, and a vulnerability webinar from FinTech North and EQ Credit Services focusing on the fintech and financial services sector.
The festival is also supporting an initiative by Harrogate-based Next Up and Leeds City Council, calling out for 500 senior people to mentor Yorkshire entrepreneurs and leaders who are dealing with the impact of COVID-19, with more information available on the website to sign up.
Attendees also have access to events from leading tech companies including AND Digital, the DMW Group and BJSS, as well as local universities.
Stuart Clarke, the festival director, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the support of local organisations, businesses and the community since deciding to continue with this year’s festival, but in a virtual format.
“With over 70 events still taking place, we’re demonstrating the digital strength of the city by adapting to this new environment and bringing people together to connect, network and celebrate.
“There really is something for everyone to get excited about and look forward to with our new virtual programme.
“Whether you want to learn a new skill or refresh your brain on SEO or social media; get business advice on how to navigate through this period or escape by getting involved in a meaty discussion on AI or GDPR – I would encourage everyone to take a look through the events and join our online community.
“What’s even better is that we’ll be back again this autumn with our physical events to continue our celebration of all things tech and digital from the Leeds City Region and beyond.”
Partners and sponsors of the Leeds Digital Festival include Crisp, TPP, Leeds City Council, the University of Leeds and Channel 4.
People can view the full calendar of the virtual events at https://leedsdigitalfestival.org/events/
