The North East is set to become the UK's digital content creation
capital following the announcement of a first-of-its-kind BBC
Digital Accelerator programme, exclusively partnering with North
East Screen to fast-track the region's independent producers into
the global digital marketplace.
The pioneering initiative, announced at Edinburgh TV Festival,
will up to four independent North East production companies
provided with funding and expert mentorship to develop
cutting-edge content for platforms including TikTok, YouTube and
Twitch. This represents the BBC's largest digital investment in
the North East's screen sector.
Selected companies will receive comprehensive support from BBC
and North East Screen teams, including editorial guidance and
business development expertise, helping transform innovative
regional talent into market-ready digital
powerhouses.
North East Mayor said: "The North East is
bursting with creative talent. We're already known as a TV and
film powerhouse, with the Harry Potter films and 28 Years Later
making a name for us on the big screen.
“But as more and more of us use digital platforms like TikTok,
YouTube and Twitch, we need to make sure our region's talent is
front and centre there too.
“That's why this groundbreaking partnership is really exciting –
it's allowing us to lead the way so young people and
entrepreneurs can turn their creative ideas into real businesses.
It means our home-grown talent stays in the North East while
attracting investment and opportunity to the region.
"This programme, alongside our major studio developments, shows
we're not just adapting to the digital future - we're shaping it.
We're building a creative economy that works for everyone, making
our region the true home of real opportunity in the digital
age."
Building on the region's established reputation as a traditional
film and TV production hub, this accelerator creates new pathways
for young entrepreneurs and creatives to build sustainable
businesses while keeping the North East's best talent at home.
The initiative complements major studio developments already
underway across the region, cementing its position as a complete
creative economy ecosystem.
More information, and to register an expression of interest, is
available via North East Screen, here: BBC x North East Screen Digital
Accelerator - North East Screen
