OPINION
Bob Makin , general manager , Behaviour UK , Tees Tech Company of the Year 2024
I think the foundation of tech support and education that has been created in the area over the past few decades , coupled with the mentoring and funding opportunities , has , quite simply , worked !
We now are on the cusp of a fantastic growth spell , with huge companies being attracted to the area and some fantastic homegrown success stories .
I don ’ t need to point this out to fellow Teessiders , but our low costs of living compared to other tech hubs and the fact that we ’ re surrounded by incredible countryside and yet easily accessible to major cities , means we ’ re getting noticed as being a great place to work and live .
Kimberley Turner , chief financial officer , Double Eleven & Tees Businesswoman of the Year 2022
It ’ s fantastic to see Middlesbrough recognised as the UK ’ s fastest-growing tech destination and best tech hub outside London . We ’ ve been based here for nearly 15 years and have always believed in the region ’ s potential .
This town offers a unique combination of innovation , skilled talent and community spirit that truly sets it apart . As part of this vibrant tech scene , we ’ re proud to see the region gaining the recognition it deserves and are excited to continue our journey here , contributing to Middlesbrough ’ s promising future as a key player in the UK ’ s tech landscape .
Andrew Mills , CEO , Industrial Technology Systems ( ITS )
Shak Asghar , CEO , LikeUs
Middlesbrough ’ s recognition as the fastest-growing tech destination in the UK is truly inspiring . The town ’ s tech sector is expanding rapidly , with a 13.79 % growth rate , which is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit , local talent and solid infrastructure that make it an ideal place for innovation .
Middlesbrough has become a hub for startups and established firms alike , offering not only competitive wages but also an excellent quality of life . This growth is proof that Middlesbrough is the place to be for those who want to shape the future of technology beyond the typical hotspots .
We , as a region , also need to ensure that we maintain and even increase the level of support available to businesses that is helping Middlesbrough realise these kinds of achievements in the tech sector .
I ’ m thrilled but not surprised to see Middlesbrough recognised as the UK ’ s fastest-growing tech hub outside London . This accolade validates the innovative , supportive and collaborative spirit in our region . With a 13.79 % growth rate , Middlesbrough is clearly demonstrating its credentials as a prime destination for talent , tech investment and growth .
At ITS , we ’ ve been part of this landscape for more than three decades , delivering cutting-edge automation , robotic and digital systems . We ’ re excited to be part of and play a pivotal role in this evolution , leveraging our expertise to support the continued growth and recognition .
ITS is committed to fostering partnerships , nurturing talent and contributing to Middlesbrough ’ s eco-system as a tech powerhouse . This national acknowledgement will be a catalyst for further development of the entire Teesside region .
The voice of business in the Tees region | 51