Newcastle to host landmark cyber summit

A North East technology organisation is partnering with a global cyber security firm to bring a major industry summit to Newcastle, underlining the region’s growing influence in the UK cyber sector.

CyberNorth and Check Point Software Technologies will host the Cyber Leader Summit as an official fringe event of TechNExt 2026, bringing cyber security professionals, technology leaders, policymakers and innovators together for a day of discussion, insight and networking.

The event, on June 18 at Hoults Yard, marks the Newcastle debut of Check Point’s established Cyber Leader Summit roadshow, which has previously been held in cities including London and Manchester.

Organisers say the decision to bring the event to the North East is a “huge moment” and reflects the rapid growth of the region’s cyber security ecosystem and the increasing recognition it is receiving on a national level.

Championed by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), the summit will feature speakers from organisations including Check Point and the BBC, exploring topics such as cyber resilience, emerging threats and the opportunities and challenges presented by new technologies.

Check Point is one of the world’s leading cyber security companies, providing network, cloud and AI-powered security solutions to organisations, governments and enterprises around the globe.

Jon Holden, chief executive of CyberNorth, said: “Bringing the Cyber Leader Summit to Newcastle in collaboration with Check Point is a huge moment for the North East cyber scene. 

“The fact that this nationally recognised roadshow is coming to the region, following events in London and Manchester, is a clear indication of the growing reputation and capability of the North East.

“The region is home to exceptional cyber talent, innovative businesses and a highly collaborative ecosystem. 

“Through key events such as the Cyber Leader Summit we’re able to bring together industry leaders, innovators and future talent to help strengthen the region’s position as a key player within the UK cyber security landscape.”

Charlotte Wilson, head of enterprise at Check Point Software Technologies, added: “We’re delighted to bring the Cyber Leader Summit to the North East in partnership with CyberNorth and as part of TechNExt 2026.

“The summit is designed to encourage meaningful conversations around the challenges and opportunities facing cyber security today, from AI and quantum technologies to ethics, resilience and future skills while creating opportunities for collaboration across the wider ecosystem.

“The North East has a vibrant and fast-growing cyber community, and it’s important for us to support and engage with the organisations, leaders and emerging talent helping shape the future of the industry.”

The event highlights the progress made by CyberNorth, which has spent recent years building and supporting the region’s cyber security community.

Since its launch, the organisation has developed a network spanning around 600 businesses and more than 5000 professionals, while fostering collaboration across sectors including fintech, space, maritime, defence, quantum technologies and critical national infrastructure.

Beyond providing insight into the evolving cyber threat landscape, the summit will offer opportunities for organisations to build partnerships, share expertise and connect with key decision-makers.

A spokesperson at the DSIT added: “At DSIT, we always look to support the regions in their pursuit of improved cyber security practices and, increasingly, their focus on AI development and its adoption.

“To strengthen resilience across the UK, it is essential that the regions continue to upskill their businesses and the next generation of professionals in these frontier technologies.

“That a global leader in cyber tech and AI has chosen to bring their senior leader summit to the North East, is a great indication of the calibre of businesses and potential of the region.

I wish the event every success.”

The event forms part of the wider TechNExt festival programme, which showcases the strength of the North East technology sector through a series of conferences, demonstrations and networking events.

To book your place at the Cyber Leader Summit, click here.

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