SUPPORT from the Yorkshire business community for Venturefest York has been so great that the future of the region's first exhibition and conference for hi-tech start-ups is assured for at least the next two years.

That is the assessment of Di Johnson, Venturefest York's sponsorship manager, who has been drumming up backing for the event which will occupy the entire new Ebor Stand at York Racecourse on February 5.

Free to delegates, it will consist of an exhibition, running alongside a series of seminars, giving entrepreneurs and business start-ups access to the resources, information and advice they need to establish themselves and grow.

Mrs Johnson said: "Exhibiting at or sponsoring Venturefest York will put companies in front of up to 1,000 potential clients from a diverse range of market sectors.

"We're delighted with the response and support we've had so far from companies across the region.

"It is credit to forward-thinking Yorkshire organisations that the 2004 event will be a resounding success but also that, thanks to them, the future of Venturefest York is looking extremely rosy."

Organisers from the York Professional Initiative, headed by John Yeomans, of Harrowell Shaftoe, have taken their cue from the yearly Venturefest Oxford, which has been running since 1999. Mrs Johnson said: "We also want Venturefest York to develop into an annual event that will provide access to information and resources for start-up businesses, entrepreneurs and inventors in the north of England, building on the region's reputation as an innovative centre of opportunity.

"Several organisations have already expressed interest in supporting Venturefest York 2005 and our aim now is to secure the funds that will help ensure this will happen." Some sponsorship opportunities are still available.

Potential supporters should phone Venturefest co-ordinator Gail Carter on 01904 449551.

Updated: 09:54 Tuesday, December 02, 2003