Datalyst 2026

Get ready for Datalyst 2026 - building on the success of 2025 with a day full of insights, networking and data innovation!

Founded in collaboration between Analysts Network North East, Catalyst, The OR Society and the National Innovation Centre for Data; Datalyst is a one-day event bringing participants together to explore the latest shifts in Data, AI and Analytics: advancing their work, sharpening their skills and uncovering new ways to harness technology for maximum value and meaningful impact.

Datalyst will deliver a dynamic programme of keynotes, talks, panels and workshops led by industry trailblazers and emerging talent.

Designed to equip delegates with practical insight into using Data and AI for good, shaping resilient strategies & driving innovation-led entrepreneurship; the event will also feature a dedicated exhibition space showcasing the UK's most exciting data and AI organisations.

Across three streams; Core, Vision and Techniques, the agenda will explore how Data and Analytics can add value addressing.

Core

Held in the main Theatre space of The Catalyst, experience a variety of formats of presentation from gurus, experts, rising stars and leaders in their fields, addressing the how data and analytics can contribute to your success via the seven core subjects on which Datalyst was founded:

• Faster and Better Decision Making
• Planning and Forecasting
• Audit and Quality
• Visualisation and Communication
• Robotics and Automation
• AI
• Data Governance, Ethics and Legalities

Vision and Techniques

These sessions will address any one of the key themes above or new subjects perfectly aligned with the event, hosting a variety of highly interactive classroom-style sessions from The Catalyst’s first floor Gorgon, Faraday and Team Decision Theatre spaces.

In addition to Core subjects, expect to learn about a best practice data and analytics use in areas like Funding and Finance, Shaping Policy, Marketing and Brand and People and Culture.

Vision

Aimed at today and tomorrow’s leaders and managers, Vision sessions will address the “why?” – if you’re interested in impact, they’re for the strategists, the boardroom, the aspiring and frontline thinkers.

Techniques

Expect real world “how to” sessions suitable for beginners and experts. Practical advice, technical insights, backend building and all things “under the hood”

Your ticket also includes:

Breakfast Snacks
Lunch
Afternoon Snacks
Tea and Coffee
Access to On-Site Café

Sponsored by: National Innovation Centre for Data

Supported by: ACCA, CIMA, CIPFA, ICAEW, The OR Society and the Royal Statistical Society.

Supporting: All profits from Datalyst are donated to DataKind UK, a small charity with a significant impact on the third sector's use of data science.

Your golden tickets to be inspired, learn, improve your work and workplace, be part of the community and support a great cause!

Getting to the Catalyst

From Newcastle Central Station, we'd suggest heading left onto Neville Street.

After approximately 0.4 miles, turn right onto St James' Boulevard.

Continue on St James' Boulevard for approximately 0.3 miles, turning left onto Wellington Street.

Programme to be announced in Spring 2026