The voice of business across the North East.
Trade NE champions the people who power our region — the independent traders, the founders, the high streets and the employers who make the North East work. One alliance, speaking up for all of them.
One region. One voice. Real momentum.
Trade NE is the business alliance for the North East of England — built and run by First Connections, the region's networking and growth platform.
Where others speak for a single town or a single sector, we bring the whole region's business community together: the independents on the high street, the start-ups finding their feet, and the established employers anchoring our towns and cities.
We exist to connect, champion and grow North East business — making the case for the region with the people and partners who can move things forward.
Work with us →
The campaigns behind Trade NE
Trade NE stands on its own as the region's alliance — backed by the established First Connections campaigns and assets already working across the North East.
Newcastle First
Connecting and championing the businesses driving Newcastle and Tyneside forward — from independents to major employers.
Explore Newcastle First →Darlington First
Putting Darlington's business community on the map, supporting its traders and growing local enterprise.
Explore Darlington First →NE High Street Heroes
Our awards campaign celebrating the independent retailers and high-street businesses at the heart of the North East.
Explore the Awards →First Connections
The North East's networking and growth platform — the people, events and connections behind every Trade NE campaign.
Explore First Connections →What Trade NE does for the region
Champion
We make the case for North East business — to government, to investors and to partners — so the region's contribution is heard and backed.
Connect
We bring the region's businesses together through First Connections' networks, events and campaigns, turning isolated effort into shared momentum.
Grow
We help businesses start, sustain and scale in the North East — celebrating success and opening doors to the support that makes growth possible.
Putting North East trade on the national stage
Every year Trade NE hosts one to two flagship events built around North East trade — bringing the region's businesses together to celebrate what we do and open new doors. Alongside our events, we shape policy and engage directly with government on behalf of the North East.
A London trade event
An annual showcase in London, giving North East trade a voice in Westminster and connecting the region to investment, partners and new opportunities.
A North East trade event
A home fixture each year celebrating the businesses, founders and high streets powering our regional economy — and the trade that keeps the North East open for business.
A voice in government
We shape policy and engage with government and decision-makers on behalf of the North East — making the case for the region's trade, investment and growth.
Be first to hear about our flagship events
Want to be part of Trade NE's London and North East trade events? Register your interest and we'll keep you posted on dates, tickets and how to get involved.
Thank you — you're on the list.
We've received your details and will be in touch with news about Trade NE's upcoming events.
Made possible by our partners
Trade NE is powered by the organisations who invest in the North East alongside us — connecting the region, supporting its businesses and backing the cause.
Our delivery partner Lumo connects the North East to London, Edinburgh and beyond — affordable, low-carbon rail that keeps the region open for business.
Add your voice to the North East's business alliance
Whether you're a business looking to get involved, a partner who wants to invest in the region, or press with an enquiry — we'd love to hear from you.