VONNE Annual Conference & AGM 2026: The VCSE sector and the North East economy

What does a stronger North East economy look like for our people, places and communities – and what role does the VCSE sector play in creating it? 

The VCSE sector is already a vital part of the North East economy. Our organisations create jobs, develop skills, tackle inequalities, support healthier communities, strengthen places and reach people that other services and institutions often cannot. 

But is that contribution fully understood and valued? And, as devolution changes where decisions are made and regional economic priorities develop, how do we make sure the VCSE sector has the recognition, influence and support it needs to play a full part in the North East’s future? 

This year’s conference will create space to explore those questions together. 

Understanding our place in the economy 

Whether you lead a large charity, community organisation, social enterprise or infrastructure body, the economy affects your work – from the communities you support and the people you employ to your funding, partnerships and long-term sustainability. 

Throughout the day, we’ll look at what VCSE organisations need to understand about the North East economy, the prospects for our region and where the sector fits within emerging economic plans and priorities. 

We’ll also explore the bigger questions around how the sector is financed, how we demonstrate our economic and social value, and what needs to change for VCSE organisations to be recognised as strategic partners in creating inclusive growth. 

Through a mix of expert insight, panel conversations and roundtable discussions, there will be plenty of opportunity to contribute your own experience and evidence – as well as hear from others. 

Come away informed, connected and ready to influence 

This isn't just a conference about the economy. It’s an opportunity to help shape the conversation about the kind of economy we want for the North East and the role our sector should play within it. 

We want you to leave with a clearer understanding of the economic landscape and what it means for your organisation; new connections with VCSE colleagues, partners and decision-makers; and greater confidence in talking about the contribution your work makes to our regional economy. 

Most importantly, we want to identify what needs to happen next. 

By bringing VCSE voices and influential partners into the same room, we’ll explore the barriers holding the sector back, opportunities for greater collaboration and the practical changes that could give our sector greater recognition, influence and support. 

The conversations and priorities emerging from the day will also help shape VONNE’s ongoing policy, engagement and influencing work – ensuring the experiences and ambitions of our members and the wider sector continue to be heard in the places where decisions about the North East’s future are made. 

Who should attend? 

The conference is open to VONNE members and organisations from across the VCSE sector, alongside colleagues from the public and private sectors, funders, strategic bodies and other partners with an interest in building a stronger, fairer North East economy. 

Come ready to learn, connect, challenge and contribute – and help make the case for a North East economy in which the VCSE sector is recognised and supported as a vital partner. 

Free and discounted tickets are available for Membership+ members. Log into your user dashboard before you register to access the discounted price or redeem a free ticket code.