Funding & support resources

SHINE is a new initiative from the North East Combined Authority recognising employers who lead with fairness, opportunity and respect. It’s more than accreditation – it’s a movement to make work better for everyone.

Tech Startup Sunderland is a free programme of activity to help entrepreneurs across Sunderland to bring their tech and digital ideas to life through a wide range of expert-led support.

The North East Mayoral Strategic Authority’s North East Ambition programme supports businesses and employers to work collaboratively with schools and colleges.

The North East Ctber Resilience Centre are a police-led, not for profit organisation providing 24/7 support to small and medium businesses, our trusted Centre forms a partnership network to protect businesses from risk.

Health Innovation North East and North Cumbria (HI NENC) has developed The Innovation Pathway. A vehicle for articulating the bespoke services that can be provided to NHS organisations and industry.

With our rich history of inventiveness and community spirit, we aim to combine citizen insights, business knowledge and design thinking to establish the North of Tyne region as an international leader in innovation for the Internet of Caring Things market

Help to Grow: Management Essentials is a free, online course that explains the essential business concepts required for growth.

Connect, learn, and thrive. The membership connects you to freelancers who get it.​ No spam. No gimmicks. Just real growth.

Access a step by step guide to starting a co‑op and register your co‑op with our online registration tool.

Discover how to convert an existing business or organisation to a co‑operative

A 6-week programme designed to help you create a marketing plan for your small business.

The Cyber Action Toolkit gives you clear, bite-sized actions to protect your business's money and reputation from cyber criminals.

Able Futures is a strategic partnership created to deliver the Access to Work Mental Health Support Service on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).

New for 2026, Venture Connect is opening the door to innovative businesses across the UK and internationally for the first time.

Build a more inclusive workplace Fully funded support for North East employers

The three-year initiative provides targeted support to businesses across the North East to help them start, grow and become more resilient.