Cheryl Spears introduces “something different” in the world of exhibition events.
An award-winning entrepreneur is bringing together organisations of all sizes to network and share expertise at a new expo event on Teesside.
Cheryl Spears, owner of Spear-heads sales support business, is introducing Connect and Collab, an event which will take place at the Riverside Stadium on February 10 2026.
Cheryl says Connect and Collab will offer something different to other exhibition events on Teesside, as it promises a more interactive experience for everyone attending, whether they are exhibitors or delegates.
“The Connect and Collab Expo was created to offer something more practical and tailored than a standard business exhibition,” says Cheryl, who is the 2024 winner of the Tees Businesswomen Awards Best Newcomer title and Best New Sole Trader at last year’s Best New Tees Business Awards.
“Rather than just rows of stands, it’s a mix interactive strategic networking, expert talks, and one-to-one knowledge pods that focus on real business challenges, from finance and law to PR and team development.
“I wanted to create a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere that encourages genuine business relationship building.”
It is Cheryl’s hope that the event will create meaningful connections and encourage collaboration between businesses across the North East, as they work together towards growth and innovation.
“There’s a clear gap in the region for an expo that blends learning, collaboration, and local business promotion, not just selling, but supporting growth,” Cheryl says.
The event is also aimed at the SME market, with stands in the Legends Lounge, which is being turned into an SME expo area on the day, selling for just £100 +VAT.
There are also 30 ‘Larger Business’ level Expo stands on offer in the Host & Stay Suite at £150 +VAT and 10 Food Village stands available for £200 +VAT.
A further five Registration & Sign-Up stands are available at £200+VAT.
Attendees can benefit from expert talks on a range of business topics.
Charlotte Nichols, of Harvey & Hugo, will be talking all things PR, while Christian Green of Green Nexus will provide an insight into the worlds of AI and software.
Johnathan Saunders, of Colewood Digital, will be guiding businesses on getting their websites into shape and how they can make SEO work for them, while Craig Jiggins of Trusted Business Partner will deliver a talk on finance and funding.
Attendees will also have the opportunity to book knowledge pods for 30-minute one-to-one sessions with industry experts like Sharon Braithwaite, who will provide an insight into finance and funding, Helen Lyne on law and legislation and Bev Goodall of Abacus Bean talking accountancy.
John Forth will host a knowledge pod talking about business management, while Michaela Reaney can help support delegates with ideas around team development.
There will also be ample opportunity for networking at the event, where breakfast and lunch will be served and VIP lounges will provide access to premium connections.
Cheryl adds: “Businesses can also sponsor the event, with a headline sponsorship available for £1,000+VAT and smaller advertising opportunities in the event programme, on digital screens and more.
“Attendees can get tickets for free, with an optional VIP upgrade (£10) that includes exclusive contacts, discounts, and a premium goody bag.”
Cheryl adds the Connect and Collab expo directly aligns with Spear-heads’ mission to empower and support businesses to grow.
“By creating a space where companies can learn, connect, and generate leads, the event strengthens the North East business community, and by extension, supports Spear-heads’ vision of helping others succeed through strategic sales and collaboration,” Cheryl says.
“Hosting a successful expo also positions Spear-heads as a leading connector and enabler for regional business growth.”
Cheryl also runs Spear-net, which is focused on networking and community building and The Lunch Lab, which offers informal, knowledge-sharing opportunities over food.
The Connect and Collab expo builds on both concepts by scaling them up, bringing together the best elements of connection, collaboration, and education under one roof.
The event also builds on the success of Cheryl’s Sales Summit, which took place at Hardwick Hall in July.
Cheryl says that all of these opportunities taken together, create a “full system of support, from networking and learning to large-scale showcasing and lead generation”.
Cheryl said: “The Sales Summit showed that the regional business community is eager for in-person events that go beyond key notes and general networking.
“Events that provide practical and valuable, networking, and collaboration.
“Balancing speaker sessions with hands-on interaction and creating structured networking have shaped the Connect and Collab format and this builds on my learning from the sales summit.”
The Spear-heads Sales Summit has also inspired the introduction of knowledge pods, tailored attendee journeys, and topic-specific sessions “designed for real impact” according to Cheryl.
“The goal is for Connect and Collab to become a flagship annual event for the region,” she says.
“We hope that it will grow year on year and establish itself as a must-attend date in the North East business calendar and that it’s practical, collaborative focus sets a new benchmark for local expos.”
To book an expert pod slot, expo stand or to receive more information on sponsorship and advertising opportunities at Connect and Collab, please contact Cheryl directly or email Lynsey at events@eleven87.co.uk for all information and booking links.
To grab a ticket for the event, head over to Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/1754597320819?aff=oddtdtcreator
