Huddersfield takes center stage as the third stop on the Climb Tour, where on 5 March the 3M Buckley Innovation Centre becomes a high‑energy environment built for founders and leaders driven by clarity, ambition and meaningful momentum.
This is not a conference. It is a high‑energy collision of people, ideas and experiences that shape what happens next. Every minute is engineered to deliver value without the filler. Every speaker is here because they have built something real - with a focus within the Huddersfield region.
Availability for Huddersfield is low, and places are now very limited. If you want to be in the room, secure your free ticket today before the final spaces disappear.
Below is the full experience you can expect on our Huddersfield stop of the Climb Tour.
Meet Harold the Humanoid
Bringing innovation to life at Climb Huddersfield is Harold the humanoid robot - at the heart of cutting‑edge AI research at the University of Huddersfield. As part of the Institute for Applied Artificial Intelligence, Harold is helping explore how robotics and AI can transform assisted living, healthcare and independent living - turning future‑thinking research into real‑world impact.
And Harold isn’t just about innovation - he’s an experience. Known across campus for his personality and legendary dance moves, he brings energy, curiosity and a human touch to technology. Catch him live in Huddersfield on 5 March and see the future of AI up close.
Leading Voices. Breakthrough Thinking. A Programme Built For Impact.
Darren Evans, Founder of The Engine Room and Co-Founder of Wilsons Republic
A design‑driven transformation specialist with twenty‑five years of impact behind him. Darren’s work bridges creativity and commercial performance, with seven DBA Design Effectiveness Awards to his name and deep roots in Huddersfield’s creative sector.
Professor John Murray, Pro Vice Chancellor and global authority on Robotics, AI and digital education
A strategic leader who has reshaped curricula, driven TEF Gold performance and delivered keynote talks around the world. His work sits at the intersection of future technology, talent and ethical AI.
Professor Parikshit Goswami, Director of Research and Innovation, University of Huddersfield
A pioneering researcher in technical textiles, advanced materials and sustainable fibre innovation. His leadership spans universities, industry and national advisory boards, shaping the next era of materials science.
Katie Mallinson, Communications Specialist and former agency owner and Tim Mercer, exited founder and CCO at CloudWize
A dual fireside session built on candid experience and real resilience.
Katie built and exited Scriba PR before founding Loquiti, supporting organisations through critical transitions. Tim built, scaled and exited Vapour, championing real conversation over tech jargon and solving problems that matter. Together, they deliver a high‑impact session rooted in honesty, ambition and lived entrepreneurial experience.
The Huddersfield Experience
Here is the full schedule, crafted to give maximum clarity, energy and connection.
A fast, high‑energy start that sets the tone for the afternoon.
Led by Parik from the University of Huddersfield.
A dynamic, founder‑led session exploring the realities, challenges and breakthroughs behind building and scaling in the region.
Real impact stories connecting education, ambition and local industry.
A powerful look at robotics, AI and the future of human‑tech interaction, led by Huddersfield’s own Pro Vice Chancellor.
Once the content wraps, the room becomes a hub for honest conversations and natural introductions. It is the space where ideas turn into next steps.
Why Huddersfield
Huddersfield is a creative, ambitious and quietly powerful hub of innovation. The speakers on this lineup are not visitors. They are builders, leaders and champions of the region. Climb Tour Huddersfield brings them together on one stage to help shape the next wave of business opportunity in the region.
Be Part of the Movement
If you want practical insight, real connection and a jolt of clarity for your next chapter, Huddersfield is the place to be.
One day. One city. A focused burst of opportunity.
Say yes to the room that could change what comes next.