A powerful consortium of cross-industry bodies based in North East England are to collaborate.

The group will meet regularly throughout the year to co-ordinate events, share best practice and to network.

The group comprises of NOF, the North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA), NEPIC, Advanced Manufacturing Forum, Department for International Trade, Dynamo, Entrepreneurs’ Forum, The Engineering and Manufacturing Network, RTC North, Constructing Excellence in the North East, MAKE UK, Innovation SuperNetwork, The North East England Chamber of Commerce, Beacon House Events and We are UMI.

The collaboration is the idea of NOF, the UK business development and membership organisation for the energy sector. Kristie Leng, events and projects manager at NOF, who is chair of the group, said: “There is a unique culture of cooperation in North East England. There are many sound reasons why the most highly influential clusters should come together and when NOF approached them, they all reacted positively and with great enthusiasm. Not only will this collaboration work to the advantage of all involved but it sends a very positive message to our respective members and the wider network in the region. We are a business community that is generous of spirit, transparent, forward thinking and innovative.”

Laura Gage, marketing & PR manager at the North East Automotive Alliance (NEAA), said: “The NEAA is pleased to champion wider sector body support. Some organisations are members of multiple groups, so offering greater value to them is something we are keen to embrace and this includes ensuring there are no clashes when it comes to flagship events.

“We can also learn from one another, which in turn helps us deliver greater value to our own membership and networks. We want to come together to share ideas and promote best practice whilst also promoting events across the networks to support diversification and cross-selling.”

Catriona Lingwood, chief executive at Constructing Excellence in the North East, said: “As a region and within the construction sector and built environment, collaboration is key to our success and by networks coming together this can only strengthen the region and offer greater value to all of our members. Promoting a sustainable, inclusive environment, is something that we very much put our support behind.”

Jen Taylor, communications and engagement manager at Innovation SuperNetwork, said: “We are delighted to be members of the Regional Events Group. The North East has a wealth of fantastic businesses all delivering leading events and conferences and we also have a huge variety of top quality venues to host them. By joining together with other North East businesses we can avoid event clashes, share good practice and support each other. I’m very excited about the opportunities that come as a result of this group.”