Why the North East is ideal for founders
Unmatched business growth:
- Businesses in the North East benefit from competitive wages and property costs, in addition to a low cost
- The North East is extremely well-connected, giving access to world-class universities, R&D expertise and global markets
Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF): Driving success
The Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund (NPIF) is a joint initiative by the British Business Bank and ten Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs). It covers the North West, Yorkshire, the Humber, and Tees Valley, offering:
- Microfinance: For businesses needing smaller loans to get started.
- Debt finance: Supporting growth through larger funding options.
- Equity finance: Enabling companies to scale through strategic investment.
Since its inception in 2017, NPIF has delivered over £540m in funding, propelling small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) across the North of England. The recent launch of NPIF II adds another £660m, extending support to include the entire North East.
Meet the team that champion the North East's founders
At the heart of the North East’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is a dedicated team of experts supporting businesses through every stage of their journey. From investment directors to fund principals, our team is here to ensure your success.
Funding, loans and grants for start-ups
Accessing the right funding is critical to any founder’s journey. In the North East, there are a wealth of grants, loans and funding opportunities designed to:
- Manage cashflow during early-stage growth.
- Help founders build skilled teams.
- Support innovation and business development.
Explore the options:
- Government grants: Non-repayable funds for eligible projects.
- Start up loans: Low-interest loans to help kickstart your business.
- Private investment funds: Strategic funding with mentorship opportunities.
Accelerators and incubators: Catalysts for success
Joining an accelerator or incubator can transform your start-up. These programs offer:
- Office space: A collaborative environment for innovation.
- Investor access: Direct connections to funding opportunities.
- Expert mentorship: Guidance from industry leaders and peers.
Many accelerators operate on an equity exchange model, taking a small stake in your business in return for their services. Popular North East incubators include:
- Ignite Accelerator
Ignite Accelerator is based in the North East of England and specializes in tech start-ups. It provides funding, mentorship, and access to the region’s tech ecosystem. - Durham City Incubator (DCI)
DCI offers an accelerator program tailored for entrepreneurs and businesses based in County Durham. The program provides support to help businesses scale and succeed in their respective industries. - North East Technology Park (NETPark)
NETPark is a prominent science park that offers state-of-the-art facilities and support for companies in the science, engineering and technology fields. It provides a collaborative environment for innovative businesses to thrive.
- Digital Catapult North East Tees Valley
Digital Catapult North East Tees Valley supports start-ups and businesses in adopting advanced digital technologies. They offer accelerator programs, collaborative research opportunities, and access to cutting-edge facilities to foster innovation in the digital sector.
Success stories
See all postsReady to launch or scale your business?
The North East offers everything you need to succeed: an unrivalled network of support, substantial funding opportunities and a collaborative entrepreneurial spirit. Start your journey today and be part of the region’s incredible growth story.