Let's be honest: business expos can sometimes be a bit... predictable.
You arrive, walk a few laps of the exhibition hall, have a couple of conversations with the same people you saw at the last event, get given a tote bag and head home.
That's never really been what we've wanted the unLTD Business Expo to be. We’ve always wanted our exhibitors and visitors to get genuine value from the day, while enjoying themselves at the same time.
So, as we've been putting together this year's event at Magna Science Adventure Centre on 14 October, we've challenged ourselves to create a day that gives people a genuine reason to stay, get involved and make the most of every hour they're with us.
The result is the most ambitious programme we've ever put together.
Of course, there'll be a packed exhibition hall featuring businesses from across South Yorkshire and beyond, but we've worked hard to build a full day of experiences around it, bringing together inspiring speakers, interactive attractions and valuable networking opportunities. Whether you're looking to learn something new, make valuable connections, challenge yourself or simply have a genuinely enjoyable day out of the office, there will be something happening from the moment the doors open.
We're delighted to have Wildfire Events on board as our Headline Sponsor, and they're bringing one of the day's standout attractions with them. The Pressure Chamber will challenge participants to put their teamwork, communication and problem-solving skills to the test in a fast-paced interactive experience inspired by the hit TV format, The Cube.
Elsewhere on the Expo floor, and in collaboration with our Media Partner LensGo, visitors will be able to step into the unLTD TV Studio, where Editor Joe Food will be recording interviews and conversations with exhibitors, speakers and business leaders throughout the day. We'll also be hosting our Confidence Booth – a chance for attendees to step in front of the camera, share their story and challenge themselves outside their comfort zone.
For those looking to sharpen their networking skills, Andy Hanselman's Pitching Clinic will offer practical advice and a supportive environment to help attendees refine their pitch and build confidence when talking about their business.
Of course, learning remains a huge part of the day, and this year's talks programme is shaping up to be one of our strongest yet. We've brought together an exciting mix of entrepreneurs, business leaders, industry experts and change-makers who will be sharing practical insights, honest experiences and ideas that attendees can take back into their own organisations.
Highlights include the refreshingly candid F**k Up Club panel, where successful business leaders Ashley Tate, Jilly Cross and Nathan Angus will discuss the mistakes, setbacks and difficult decisions that helped shape their journeys. We'll also be tackling one of the biggest talking points in business right now with Richard Askew's session on what AI actually works in practice, separating genuine opportunities from hype and showing where businesses can create real value.
Elsewhere, David Coslett of Hello Social Avenue will put one brave business under the spotlight for a live marketing makeover, while aspiring entrepreneurs can pitch their ideas to a panel of experienced founders, investors and business leaders during Dragons' Den: Tech Edition, featuring Yorkshire AI Labs co-founder David Richards and FindAUniversity co-founder Andy Pritchard. And for those looking for something a little different, the day will round off with a sparkling wine tasting hosted by multi award-winning wine expert Andrew Lofthouse.
And that's only scratching the surface. From Andy Hanselman's special Expo edition of 3D Connect to discussions around business exits, ownership and legacy, the programme features a full day of talks, workshops and conversations designed to inform, challenge and inspire.
Networking is also getting a boost, with our popular Speed Networking sessions returning for 2026. In fact, we're running three dedicated sessions throughout the day, giving attendees multiple opportunities to meet new contacts, potential collaborators, suppliers and customers in a structured but friendly environment.
Taken together, it makes for a programme unlike anything we've attempted before. Alongside dozens of exhibitors, we've packed Magna with live broadcasts, interactive challenges, networking opportunities, practical business insights and plenty of chances to get involved.
Frankly, when we look at everything that's happening under one roof, we're still not entirely sure how we've managed to fit it all in.
unLTD Director Phil Turner said: "We've spent a lot of time thinking about what people actually want from a business expo. Yes, they want to meet suppliers and make connections, but they also want to be inspired, entertained and leave feeling like they've spent their time well.
“This year we've worked incredibly hard to bring together a programme that offers all of that. We're really proud of what we've put together and can't wait to welcome everyone to Magna in October."
If you're looking to showcase your business to hundreds of decision-makers and professionals from across the region, exhibition stands are available to book now and we recommend this to get the most from the day. Book here.
If you're planning to attend as a visitor, now's the time to start mapping out your day. Explore the full programme, book your places on selected sessions and discover everything waiting for you at Magna on 14 October. Full programme here.
