NORTH East firms are being urged to get creative at a special event next week as UK Trade & investment (UKTI) aims to help more companies take up the “export for growth” challenge.

The Digital & Creative Business Summit is one of a series of Olympic- themed events linked to the “British Business Embassy” events that took place during the London 2012 Olympics to highlight what makes Britain Great.

During the North East event companies will hear from Minister for Culture, Olympics, Media & Sport, Jeremy Hunt on the importance of creative industries and the UK’s global positioning.

Terry McStea of Design Network North will provide an insight into how the North East’s creative sector is performing while there will also be presentations from local companies that have already taken up the export challenge.

David Coppock, UKTI’s Regional Director said: “Many North East companies are already proving time and again that we can compete on the world stage and our performance continues to be at a record high with more than £13.75bn worth of goods exported in the last year.

“Nationally, the creative industries employ around 1.5 million people and account for almost three per cent of UK Gross Value Added ... about £36bn.

“This sector is one in which the North East can already boast world-leaders and we’re keen to encourage others to follow in their footsteps.

“We’ve set ourselves an ambitious target to help create 500 new exporters by 2015 and I’d urge anyone considering starting to export or looking to enter new markets to come along to find out how we can help.”

The event will be held at The Northern Design Centre, Baltic Business Quarter, Gateshead, on Thursday, 30 August 9am-2pm.

To find out more or to book your place call the North East International Trade Hotline on 0845 050 5054 or email enquiries@uktinortheast.org.uk