Conference Ambassador Programme

The Conference Ambassador Programme is here to help academics, professionals, researchers and business leaders identify future event opportunities and create a successful bid to host at Northumbria University.

When considering where to hold its next conference, an association or society can be strongly influenced by the input of a local member. The final decision is often based on a competitive process with bids spearheaded by local ‘conference ambassadors’ in partnership with NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau (NGI). 

If you provide the scientific, technical or industry knowledge, a network of contacts and programme ideas, NGI work with us to provide high-quality bid documentation, expert knowledge, unbiased advice on venues, social programmes, transport and accommodation, and support throughout the process 

Why become a Conference Ambassador

If your work is cutting edge and you’re making waves in your field, tell the world! Working together to bring a conference to Northumbria is a great way to showcase that your research is at the forefront of change and innovation.

• Raise the profile of your work and organisation across the UK and internationally.
• Be recognised as a leader in your field of expertise.
• Highlight new research and developments.
• Forge links with academic and industry peers.
• Influence the conference programme content.
• Help put us on the map and make a significant contribution to the economic growth of the region.

Partnership with NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau 

NGI are experts at handling national and international event enquiries and have worked with Northumbria's event team for a number of years. Their experienced and professional team is here to make it easier for you to bring an event to the region. Their free of charge services includes:

• Bid preparation - composing tailored bid documents and presentation materials.
• Venue finding and booking - checking rates and availability and providing unbiased advice.
• Familiarisation visits - organising inspection trips to potential venues.
• Online accommodation booking service - arranging bedroom allocations and managing bookings.
• Support tools - providing images to enhance your marketing materials, and up-to-date visitor guides and maps for your delegates.
• Support services - sourcing providers of transport, specialist event managers and audio-visual equipment.
• Social programmes - arranging unique entertainment and social itineraries.
• General advice - guidance on conference planning, budgeting and marketing.
• Convention Bureau representation - on your organising or host committee.
• Travel advice - information on rail, road, sea and air travel.

• Access to local and national government advocacy

Next Stages

We will formally launch the Northumbria University Conference Ambassador Programme at a special event on campus on Thursday 5 October 2023 and will also host drop-in sessions for colleagues throughout the academic year. 

If you are interested in attending a drop-in session or if you have questions about the programme or an event you are considering bidding for please get in touch using the form below.