Middlesbrough tech firm upgrades offices and plans for 20 new staff after five-figure grant

A North East technology firm has received a grant to help its expansion into new premises and hiring new staff.

Big Bite, which is an enterprise WordPress agency based in Middlesbrough, is planning to hire more than 20 new employees as it expands into new offices.

The company received the five-figure grant from the Tees Valley Business Support Scheme, supported by business advisory firm Baldwins Group.

Big Bite, which is the only WordPress VIP Gold partner in the UK, will use the grant to expand into new premises in Albert North, central Middlesbrough.

Iain McPherson, CEO and founder of Big Bite, commented: “We are delighted to have received this grant from the Tees Valley Business Compass; it is an example of their dedication to supporting SMEs in the area.

“We look forward to taking our business to the next level as we continue to grow, using this grant to expand our team and move into the digital Hub of Albert North in Middlesbrough.

“During this uncertain time given the Covid-19 pandemic, we were very grateful to our advisors Baldwins, and we would like to thank their team for their guidance and input, they were instrumental for us throughout the whole process.”

Andrew Rowe, partner at Baldwins Accountancy, said: “We are delighted to have supported Big Bite in obtaining this grant, which will enable them to take their growth to the next level.

“It is encouraging to see firms such as Big Bite still thriving and looking to expand, even with the current backdrop of Covid-19 and the difficulties it poses to all businesses.

“It is testament to the strength of their business and their people, as well as their entrepreneurial spirit, as they look to improve and broaden their service offering.

“We would like to thank the Tees Valley Business Compass for all their help during this process; the scheme is testament to their commitment to SMEs and entrepreneurs in the region.”

Ben Houchen, Tees Valley Mayor, added: “My priority, even more so during the coronavirus pandemic, has been to support businesses in Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool so I am delighted that we have been able to support another business and help them invest, grow and create local jobs for local people.

“Our region is already home to some world-leading digital businesses which are the high-skilled, well paid jobs of the future that people want, and I am pleased that once again here in the Tees Valley we are leading the way.”