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Tech leader Paul Lancaster reveals plans for Newcastle Start Up week

North East SuperConnector Paul Lancaster has announced he is launching a week dedicated to supporting technology startups in the region next year.

Newcastle Start Up week will take place May 15-19, 2017, where new tech startups will have the opportunity to benefit from first hand support from those working in the sector.

Speaking at an event at Sage (UK) to launch the Dynamo North East IT Apprentice Hub, Paul also revealed that the week would be an opportunity to attract investment to the North East, as well as inspiring local people to grow businesses in the region.

Paul, a well-known name working across the Northern tech scene, has worked for the likes of Shell LiveWIRE, Sage and Tech North.

He launched his own business, Plan Digital UK, in April this year, offering innovation, digital marketing and business development services for people across the North.

Discussing the reasons behind the Start Up week initiative, Paul said: “This region has endured significant problems over the years but its people are really good at getting stuck in.

“As a region according to an authoritative study on the nation’s digital economy, the Tech Nation Report, it punches well above its weight and is described as a great place to try new things. The Dynamo North East IT Hub is the latest example of this.”

The Dynamo North East IT Apprentice Hub, a UK first, has already successfully filled 90 IT vacancies after being pioneered in the North East by national training provider Baltic Training Services.

Working in partnership with the IT employer network Dynamo North East over the last 18 months, it has now officially launched in Newcastle to help address the technology skills gap across the region.

Paul continued: “Now we just need to get the message out there that the North East offers fantastic opportunity and support to both technology employees and employers growing and innovating in the region.

“I’ve been planning Newcastle Start Up week for months and I want anyone with the ambition to launch a technology start up to set aside five days from 15 to 19 May on 2017 and benefit from the free support on offer right here in Newcastle.

“I’ve spent 10 years successfully connecting businesses to the support networks that exist here in the North East and I’m going to put those connections to good use.

“It’s not just about inspiring local people and employers but also about attracting people and businesses to the area, as well as connecting people, businesses and investors already here.”

To get in touch with Paul, he can be found tweeting @lordlancaster.

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