The North East cyber ecosystem is set to take centre stage this month when global cyber security leader, Check Point, partners with CyberNorth to host the Cyber Leader Summit as an official fringe event as part of TechNExt 2026.
The collaboration represents a major endorsement of the North East’s growing cyber ecosystem and highlights the region’s increasing influence within the UK cyber security sector. Check Point’s decision to bring its established Cyber Leader Summit roadshow to Newcastle marks a significant coup for the region and a strong nod to the exceptional cyber talent developing across the North East.
Hot on the heels of its London event and following successful editions in Manchester, the Cyber Leader Summit will make its Newcastle debut during TechNExt 2026, bringing together cyber security professionals, technology leaders, innovators and policymakers for an afternoon of expert insight, discussion and networking focused on the future of cyber resilience and emerging technologies.
As a key contributor to the UK’s overall cyber strategy, CyberNorth leads the growing regional economic impact of a thriving cyber security community. With strong, well-established connections across multiple sectors, including quantum and CNI, we are able to support partners through meaningful introductions, collaboration and access to a broad, engaged network.
Jon Holden, CEO 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.”
Championed by the Department of Science, Innovation & Technology, the event will feature a blend of regional and national speakers, including Check Point and the BBC, sharing insight into the latest cyber trends, emerging threats and best practice approaches to navigating an increasingly complex digital landscape.
Check Point Software Technologies is a global leader in cyber security solutions, protecting organisations, governments and enterprises around the world from cyber threats through advanced network, cloud and AI-powered security technologies. The company works with businesses across multiple sectors to help safeguard digital infrastructure against evolving cyber risks.
Charlotte Wilson, Head of Enterprise at Check Point Software Technologies, said:
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.”
Since inception, CyberNorth has built a vibrant cyber security community in the North East, supporting around 600 businesses and over 5000 active professionals, while collaborating across a range of sectors from FinTech, Space, Maritime, to Defence. Strong relationships with the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology and Department for Business and Trade have amplified the region’s profile nationally and internationally.
By hosting the Cyber Leader Summit, in collaboration with Check Point, we aim to further strengthen the cyber security community across the North East, equipping organisations and leaders with the tools, knowledge and strategies needed to stay ahead of the rapidly evolving cyber threat landscape.
A Spokesperson at Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (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 summit also provides an important platform for organisations to showcase their expertise, forge new partnerships and connect directly with decision-makers shaping the future of cyber security in the region.
The event forms part of the wider TechNExt festival programme, which celebrates the North East’s thriving technology sector through a series of events, showcases and industry gatherings across the region.
Cyber Leader Summit: 18 June 2026 (12-5pm) Hoults Yard
Bookings: https://events.checkpoint.com/cyber-leader-summit-newcastle-cybernorth-technext-2026/
