HUNDREDS of visitors will descend upon an innovation conference aimed at helping firms increase their market presence.

VentureFest North-East takes place at Newcastle’s St James’ Park tomorrow (Tuesday, November 14).

Organisers say the full-day event will include a series of challenge sessions for businesses to secure work on projects, such as a collaboration to identify and develop solutions to issues across the water sector.

A series of sessions designed to shine a light on women in innovation will also take place, as will seminars on workforce development and the robot economy.

Estelle Blanks, deputy director of VentureFest North-East delivery organisation, the Innovation SuperNetwork, said: “We've worked closely with the business community to evolve this year’s programme to ensure it reflects the key issues and opportunities facing the region's businesses right now.

Ms Blanks added speakers will include Phil Kite, former chief executive of Reece Group, and Joanna Feeley, of Newcastle-based trend agency Trend Bible, while an innovation showcase and drop-in business clinic will return.

The event is free, with registrations open at venturefestnortheast.co.uk