Leeds Digital Sector Growth

Yorkshire is the fastest-growing tech region in the United Kingdom, new data confirms.

06:35 03 March 2020

New research reveals that Yorkshire is the fastest-growing tech region in the UK, enjoying 48per cent growth in its digital sector in just three years. New data confirms that the number of people employed in the sector has increased from 58,000 to 86,000 since 2017. Of the employees in the tech sector in Yorkshire, 66per cent are based within the Leeds City Region.

 

Roger Marsh, Chair of the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “The northern tech scene is thriving, with so many fantastic opportunities for entrepreneurs to grow their businesses here.

 

“We’re extremely proud to see that Yorkshire has the highest growth rate in terms of digital employment in the country, which we predict to continue as workers begin to seek more affordable options outside of the capital and the commuter belt.

 

“We have a great talent pool, with Leeds City Region boasting nine universities and of course the new offices for Channel 4.

“Over the past few years we have seen such an increase in not only tech giants relocating to our region, but also some exciting and innovative start-ups setting up shop here.

 

“We’re looking forward to seeing how the tech scene develops further over the next five years.

“To support that growth, we’ve launched #Welcome, a £2.4m digital inward investment fund to support tech companies new to region locate here.”

 

And tech entrepreneur Anna Sutton, CEO of The Data Shed, said: “We set up The Data Shed in Leeds six years ago now – we’ve thrived because of the amazing businesses and talent in the region that have supported the growth of the consultancy.

 

“The Leeds Digital Festival, in April, pulls us all together every year and facilitates a real spirit of collaboration.”