North East scaleup aims to create 'next Northern media hub' with BIC support

A media company in the North East is making plans to expand after adding documentaries and TV to its skillset.

Second Draft, which is based at the North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) in Sunderland, initially specialised in corporate video content, but is now looking to expand into documentary making and television production.

Established by co-founders Mark Bell and Glen Colledge, Second Draft moved into the BIC in August 2018, and has since gone on to develop a growing client base.

As well as relocating to larger premises, the firm’s expansion plans include the creation of jobs and investment in new equipment in order to scale up operations and be pitch-ready.

Commenting on the support received from the BIC, co-founder Mark Bell said: “The friendliness and supportiveness of the creative community and wider business community is what makes the region so special.

“It’s what allows people like us to start up a media business and enjoy such success – this just would not happen the same way in London.

He added: “There’s so much more creative potential here and it’s exciting to think that in five years or so we could become the next Northern media hub and could successfully attract the next big broadcaster in the way Leeds secured Channel 4.”