Burnley chosen for second-ever LIFT Festival

The Lancashire Innovation, Finance, and Tech Festival will take place on Thursday, June 11th, at Turf Moor.

LIFT 26 will feature panels, presentations, fireside chats, practical advice, and actionable insights to help ambitious, innovative Lancashire businesses grow.

Rachel Bayley, Burnley Place Brand Manager, said: “Burnley’s digital and tech sector is not a future ambition; it is a present-day reality. Digital businesses are growing here at pace, embedded across manufacturing, professional services, health, construction, retail, and the creative industries.

“Digital jobs growth has outstripped national averages. Businesses are choosing Burnley for its connectivity, affordability, talent pipeline, and quality of life. We’re close to Manchester and Leeds, but with the space, affordability, and focus to deliver at pace, doing things our own way. We’re delighted that Innovate Lancashire has chosen Burnley to host the second LIFT, and delegates will receive a warm welcome.”

The news comes after Burnley Bondholders visited Parliament last month to lobby the Government for more policy support for businesses and Northern towns. The group of 40 business leaders also unveiled Burnley’s new digital strategy. This includes creating a dedicated digital and tech space, embedding digital across every sector.

The LIFT headline sponsor is Burnley Bondholder Forbes.

Daniel Fletcher, Senior Associate at Forbes, said: “Lancashire is bustling with ambitious, innovative businesses that are driving economic growth, attracting investment and creating new opportunities right across the county.

“Cities and towns throughout Lancashire, like Preston and Burnley, offer connectivity, affordability, a rich talent pipeline, and an exceptional quality of life. It’s no wonder digital firms and companies pursuing growth are making Lancashire their home, and we’re delighted to welcome them to our business community. LIFT is a fantastic occasion for bringing together progressive thinkers and inspiring collaboration that supports the continued success of Lancashire - we’re very much looking forward to being part of this, and Forbes Solicitors are proud to be the headline sponsor.”

LIFT is open to anyone in Lancashire and is produced by Lancashire County Council’s Innovate Lancashire team, in partnership with Burnley Council, Burnley.co.uk, the Lancashire Digital Hub, and the Fhunded early-stage finance programme.

LIFT 26 is open to anyone in Lancashire, and tickets can be booked at https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Burnley/Burnley-Football-Club/Lancashires-Innovation-Funding--Tech-Festival/42141448/