The North East’s Digital Pathfinders Programme is expanding South of the Tyne, extending digital support to organisations in Durham, Gateshead, Sunderland, and South Tyneside.
The expansion builds on the support already provided to businesses and organisations across Newcastle, North Tyneside, and Northumberland.
Since launch in 2020, Digital Pathfinders has worked with over 450 organisations across the North East, helping them adopt digital tools and strategies to future-proof their operations and drive revenues. The programme has generated 40 new jobs, safeguarded 96 existing job roles, and unlocked £671,000 in digital investment, the majority of which has been reinvested in the region, strengthening local digital infrastructure and long-term growth.
The strength of digital adoption support in the region and the need for continuing activity was discussed recently with a visit by international research organisation, OECD and UK government officials. The expansion of Digital Pathfinders means more organisations than ever will be able to access free, practical support to explore, de-risk, and adopt new technologies.
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Funded by the North East Combined Authority and delivered by Sunderland Software City, the programme will run until March 2026. Eligible organisations can access tailored one-to-one sessions and workshops on popular topics such as artificial intelligence, website development, and digital marketing.
Cllr Karen Kilgour, leader of Newcastle City Council and cabinet member for Home to the Green Energy Revolution, said: “The North East is pioneering digital adoption and we want to help more companies from all sectors benefit from our region’s new AI Growth Zone and the thriving tech ecosystem we are building.
“The Digital Pathfinders programme has already generated new jobs, protected many others, and brought hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of investment into the North East. It’s fantastic to see its reach being extended to even more of our region’s communities.
“Our digital programmes are helping North East SMEs make the most of new digital technologies and this activity proves we continue to support businesses on their digital adoption journey.”
Jenny Sutcliffe, head of delivery for business support at Sunderland Software City, added: “Digital Pathfinders is about much more than getting to grips with technology, it’s about giving organisations the confidence to embrace digital change and allow them to use it to their advantage.
“The innovation and resilience we’ve seen from businesses and charities over the past few years has been inspiring. By expanding the reach of the Digital Pathfinders programme, more organisations will be able to access the tools and knowledge needed to thrive. This investment in the North East’s digital future will help to secure long-term economic growth and help organisations to build a stronger, more sustainable future.”
