OPINION
Tees Talk
The region ’ s digital business leaders have responded to news that Middlesbrough is the UK ’ s fastest-growing tech hub .
A new report also named Middlesbrough as the UK ’ s best tech hub outside of London .
Here ’ s the reaction from local tech leaders …
Danielle Croce , director , Intasite & Tees Businesswoman of the Year 2024
The growth in Middlesbrough ’ s tech scene reflects the region ’ s commitment to innovation and its strong support network for startups and established companies . Local talent is nurtured by nearby universities , and the Tees Tech Awards give businesses a platform to shine .
With Net Zero Teesside emerging as a clean energy hub , technology will be essential in partnering with industry to achieve sustainability goals . This success means businesses can not only thrive locally but also expand into international markets . For companies like ours , close to Middlesbrough , it ’ s an inspiring time to be part of this forward-thinking tech community .
David Dixon , founder of Fireside , strategic advisor , digital transformation and growth catalyst
Middlesbrough and the wider region have changed in so many positive ways over the last 20 years . A cornerstone of this success is our varied digital and tech cluster .
We have some wonderful digital opportunities to explore right ahead of us – healthcare , digital trade and advanced manufacturing being three key areas .
Having this national recognition , which we collectively deserve , is superb , but it ’ s only truly useful if we use it as a springboard to greater things . Yes , we need to celebrate the wins , but the time to build on this wonderful platform is now .
Imran Anwar , CEO , Alt Labs & Tees Valley Business Board member
The recognition is not only exciting for our region but should also serve as a signal to those outside the Tees Valley . With a tech sector growth rate of 13.79 % and rising salaries , Middlesbrough offers an attractive mix of career growth , competitive pay and a high quality of life , including an enviable work-life balance and minimal commute times .
This rapid growth is an enormous opportunity for the Tees Valley as a whole to focus on inward investment , encouraging businesses and talent to join this expanding hub . The success of local powerhouses like Double Eleven , Salesfire , Radical Forge , Behaviour UK , Amplience , Causeway and ITS demonstrates the potential for startups and established tech firms to thrive here .
Middlesbrough ’ s infrastructure , coupled with the local government ’ s support for tech and innovation , makes it an ideal location for companies looking to leverage a skilled workforce and sustainable growth . As Middlesbrough continues to evolve as a tech destination , I ’ m confident that it will attract more attention , investment and talent , solidifying its place on the UK ’ s tech map .
Jason Pritchard , Tees Tech Business Leader of the Year 2024 & CEO of Fitfactory , Tees Tech Company of the Year 2023
I ’ m thrilled to see Middlesbrough recognised as the fastestgrowing tech destination in the UK . This is a well-deserved acknowledgment of the talented , innovative people driving growth here .
This recognition will undoubtedly strengthen our ability to attract more tech companies to the area , positioning Middlesbrough as a prime location for tech expansion in the UK . We ’ re proud to be part of this dynamic community and look forward to supporting further growth and collaboration in the region .
50 | Tees Business