By KLTV Newsdesk –

Business, community and public sector leaders will gather at the Cedar Court Hotel in Huddersfield on Thursday 15 October 2026 for the Institute for Equity’s first regional inclusion event.

Preparations are under way for the inaugural Yorkshire Inclusion Luncheon, which will bring leaders from across the region together to explore how inclusion can be strengthened in workplaces and communities.

The event, organised by the Institute for Equity, University Centre, takes place on Thursday 15 October 2026 in the Halifax Suite at the Cedar Court Hotel, Huddersfield.

It will also host the presentation of the National Inclusion Awards©, recognising individuals and organisations making a significant contribution to equity, diversity and inclusion.

A Black History Month focus on leadership

Taking place during Black History Month, the luncheon aims to provide a platform for discussion on organisational leadership, workplace culture and social inclusion, while celebrating good practice from across Yorkshire.

Organisers have set three key objectives for the event: bridging the gap between corporate decision-makers, grassroots organisations and the Institute for Equity; sharing practical strategies that have created fairer and more inclusive workplaces and communities; and developing a blueprint that positions Yorkshire as a leader in organisational, social and economic inclusion.

Celebrating outstanding contributions

A major feature of the afternoon will be the National Inclusion Awards©, highlighting those who have shown outstanding leadership and impact in advancing social justice, equity and inclusion.

Guests will arrive from 12.30 pm, with the luncheon beginning at 1 pm.

The programme includes keynote speakers, networking opportunities and interactive ice-breaking sessions, alongside the awards presentation and a four-course meal.

Bringing Yorkshire’s leaders together

The event is aimed at business owners, senior executives, finance, audit and risk managers, human resources professionals, community leaders and anyone with an interest in building more inclusive organisations and communities.

Organisers say it will also give employers the chance to explore ways of attracting and retaining diverse talent.

The luncheon is being organised with regional stakeholders including representatives from the top 100 businesses in Kirklees, the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) and the Institute for Equity’s Yorkshire Inclusion Network©.

Final days to become a sponsor

Organisations still have the chance to sponsor the event, with sponsorship closing on Wednesday 7 October 2026.

Four packages are available: Blue at £350, Green at £750, Gold at £1,250 and Purple, the Headline Sponsor package, at £2,500.

Only one Headline Sponsor package is available.

Organisers say sponsorship offers a way for organisations to raise their profile, increase their visibility and make a lasting impact across Yorkshire.

How to get involved

Sponsorship enquiries should be sent to finance@instituteforequity.ac.uk before the 7 October deadline.

Further information on event bookings and media accreditation is available from the Institute for Equity, University Centre, where the full programme, including the agenda, speakers and awards judges, can also be viewed.