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 indepdent 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 Kim McGuinness 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
