NeuroSpark: A Creative Collaboration Space – June 2026

Join us for our June NeuroSpark, a friendly and supportive environment for neurodivergent entrepreneurs to share ideas and projects. Facilitated by Rob Edwards (CEO of the NEA), the sessions are free to NEA members (on a paid membership programme), ThriveND participants, and cost £40 to non-members.

Our aim is to alleviate some of the stress and pressure associated with networking among fellow business owners. In developing NeuroSpark, we have utilized our extensive experience working alongside neurodivergent entrepreneurs like ourselves. We aspire for NeuroSpark to offer a relaxed, engaging, and enjoyable approach to conducting business.

We are limiting the number of participants to 12 to guarantee a quality experience for everyone.

Session Objectives:

• A safe, inclusive environment for neurodivergent entrepreneurs to share ideas and projects. 
• Foster opportunities for collaboration and networking. 
• Encourage creativity and problem-solving tailored to neurodivergent strengths.

Structure and Flow:

1. Welcome and Grounding (10 minutes)

• Facilitator Introduction & Community Norms: Rob will give a brief overview of the session’s purpose. 
• We’ll have a quick, optional Icebreaker Activity: A question or creative prompt in the chat or verbally (e.g., “What inspires you most about your current project?”).

2. Guest speaker: Gemma Johnson (20 minutes, including discussion)

Following the publication of The Lilac Centre‘s neurodiversity and entrepreneurship report, we are delighted to welcome Gemma Johnson, lead for the Centre, to this month’s NeuroSpark!

In addition to championing neurodivergent and disabled entrepreneurship, Gem is also Senior Manager for Business is Good and works on the Maple Review, the Willow Review, f:Entrepreneur and The Cedar Review.

This is a fantastic opportunity to find out more about the new report and the wider work of The Lilac Centre. We can’t wait to hear from Gem!

3. Project Spotlights (20 minutes)

• Participants can take turns sharing anything about what they’re working on. 
• Format: 2-3 minutes per person. 
• Prompt: “What is your project? What do you need help with or feedback on?” 

4. Break (10 minutes)

• Two 10-Minute Rounds: Participants will then rotate through two different breakout rooms to maximize networking and idea-sharing opportunities. 
• Process:
•   First Round (10 minutes): Groups discuss a specific topic or challenge (e.g., “What strategies work best for neurodivergent-friendly marketing?”). 
•   Second Round (10 minutes): Participants are assigned to new rooms for fresh input and new discussions. Each new group can explore a different topic or build on insights from the first round. 

6. Feedback and Reflection (10 minutes)

• Each breakout group shares highlights from their discussion. 
• Participants reflect on key takeaways or insights (via chat or speaking). 

7. Closing and Networking (5 minutes)

• You can share contact details if you wish.
• We will share a follow-up plan (e.g., shared notes, next session date). 
• Participants can stay in the room for casual post-session networking if they wish.

Neuroinclusive Enhancements:

• We will share instructions in advance, including the carousel plan at the start of the session so participants know what to expect. 
• Participants are welcome to stay in one breakout room if the rotation feels overwhelming.
• We will display a countdown timer when breakout rooms are closing to allow for smooth transitions. 
• If there’s anything that would make your experience easier and more enjoyable, you can let us know when you register.

All conversations are covered by the Chatham House Rule: when a meeting, or part thereof, is held under the Chatham House Rule, participants are free to use the information received, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker(s), nor that of any other participant, may be revealed. 

At NEA, we believe that there is a different way of doing business that works alongside neurodivergent brains. We look forward to welcoming you to NeuroSpark!