North East
Levelling Up is here, breathing new life into businesses all over the North East.
The UK Government is investing over £1.3 billion in Levelling Up projects for local people and businesses across the North East.
New funds to help businesses flourish – Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II
Local businesses will be able to apply for investments through the UK Government’s Northern Powerhouse Investment Fund II. The Fund is part of the new Nations and Regions Investment Funds, launched by the British Business Bank, and will deliver over £660 million, available to small and medium-sized businesses across the North of England. The funds will help businesses expand, innovate and grow, and create new jobs and opportunities.
Opening more doors to more businesses – North East Pilot for the Visitor Economy
The UK Government is investing in the North East visitor economy via a new £2.25 million scheme to bring together and show off the best of the region, attract investment and boost the local economy. Supporting the region’s major events, attractions and hospitality offer, the pilot will attract more domestic and international visitors to the area, meaning more customers for local businesses.
A portal of possibilities – Teesside Freeport
Freeports are special areas within the UK’s borders where different economic regulations apply, such as tax and customs relief, on specific sites. Teesside Freeport is helping businesses discover new customers, creating more than 18,000 jobs and trading opportunities. It also facilitates international trade, making the Tees Valley a major export region and the go-to place for offshore energy, engineering and biomanufacturing, with the skills and workforce to match.
Nurturing Talent in the North East – North East Institute of Technology
Institutes of Technology, funded by the UK Government, bring together education with business to deliver world-class technical education on a flexible curriculum. They fill skills gaps in the local area and anticipate future needs. The North East Institute of Technology opened its doors in 2020, focusing on the digital, advanced manufacturing, engineering and construction sectors.
Find news, information and advice from the government on starting or growing your business in the North East.
Find out how some of the UK Government’s investment programmes, including the Levelling Up Fund and Community Ownership Fund, have been supporting projects across the North East.
Other Levelling Up Projects in the North East