Sponsor/Exhibitors
13 purpose-built exhibition and demonstration stands from varying academic research projects with complex requirements and build time. The University created a specific network for the demonstrators and conference attendees to connect to.
Event format
The conference was specifically targeted at academics and exec level industry professionals. This invited event included a Minister keynote speaker, plenary sessions and catering followed by a private drinks reception and dinner.
The complimentary public event in Millennium Square enabled school groups and members of the public to experience the potential of 6G connectivity. This included a bespoke exhibition and demonstration marquee, entertainment, and artistic installations.
We worked closely with the client’s marketing team to transmit a livestream to satellite events in London, Cambridge and Belfast taking place on the same day.
ZiaBia role
ZiaBia were successful in winning this tender in late 2024 with work commencing in January 2025. The tender introduction was given by the venue We The Curious, they were approached for recommendations and due to our previous working relationship they made the introduction.
During the planning stages, the event and our involvement grew rapidly. Our experience was called upon to develop the public event in conjunction with the demo organisations and the art installations. We were also requested to steer the logistics for the invitation-only conference and evening reception.
We managed all communications with the delivery partners and suppliers, including the venue, marquee build team, furniture hire, production and power supply, police, security, health and safety, event catering and support team catering. As part of the project management role, we ensured timescales were managed and deadlines met.
Key responsibilities
We worked with the PR agency Innovate Comms who managed the speaker programme, content, event identity and branding.
With a team of 120 people supporting on site, briefings were essential. We led these and delivered to internal stakeholders, academia, external exhibitors and partners during the pre-event planning. We scheduled student volunteer rotas for those involved in supporting the event and established roles for their support.
A key part of the brief was to enhance the guest experience and encourage attendance for the public event in the square. With this in mind, ZiaBia introduced digital illustrations, managed a fully interactive social wall, installed photobooths and music to give a festival feel and create public interest.
