As part of the FutureEverything festival, #smc_mcr in association with CityCo hosts a discussion looking at Manchester's digital future on May 15 at Crowne Plaza Hotel. The panel represents opinions from policy makers, business and the broader digital community.

Manchester has an opportunity to become a leading connected, digital city, but there are many challenges ahead if we are to make this a reality.

Recently, Manchester was awarded money from central government to begin the process of implementing a fast data infrastructure for citizens and businesses alike. There have been several recent reports such as the Greater Manchester Growth Review, The Manchester Digital Strategy and Manchester Digital Agenda that propose ways that the city, and the Greater Manchester region will be able to fulfil its potential.

How will these plans benefit the people and businesses of the city? And will this offer a fair and sustainable future forthe city? The appetite and ideas are there, but can Manchester lead digitally in the 21st Century?

Please note: Capacity is limited, so only register if you definitely can attend.

Panelists

Alison Gordon - Director of Project Development, Commission for the New Economy

Dave Carter - Director, Manchester Digital Development Agency

Erinma Ochu - Digital Citizen

Dave Mee - Director, Manchester Digital Laboratory (Madlab)

Tim Blackburn - Director, i-COM

Chair - Martin Bryant - Managing Editor, The Next Web

Arrive from 6pm (BST) for a 6.30 start.

Visit this link for further details.