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Space to Think

We're back! After a knockout first season, Growth Lab Sunderland is hitting the road again - ready to spark even more lightbulb moments!

We'll be popping up in locations across the city in coming months, talking about topics as varied as contracts to communications.


First up, Me, Myself & AI explores how artificial intelligence can make life easier for YOU - no big budget or tech degree required. With the help of local businesses and digital doers, we'll show you where AI can fit into your world - so you can do less of what slows you down and more of what you're great at. Book your place here>>

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BIC Shortcuts

Are you a social enterprise in Sunderland or South Tyneside looking to start-up or grow? Then take a look at this... Up to £10,000 is now available for individuals and organisations thanks to the Social Enterprise Boost Fund. The fund has just re-opened for applications following an extension of funding from the Government - could you benefit? As part of the programme, you even get free one-to-one support and coaching from our partners PNE. Find out more here>>


Have you heard of the Create Growth Programme? Designed to grow creative businesses and the local economy, it supported 101 North East businesses over 18 months. And now it's back! News that it will return to the region means selected businesses will get new chances to explore and secure commercial investment opportunities. Check it out>>

"It's all happening here" says latest media tenants

From Barnard Castle to the BIC - Howell Media has moved to Sunderland to be part of something bigger. The family-run firm has joined our creative community at the heart of the city's vibrant media scene and where the future of film and TV is developing on the doorstep.

Michelle and her armchair Olympians

Forget Couch to 5K - meet the Durham social entrepreneur who's turning chairs into a launchpad for community transformation, one seated workout at a time.

Grab your tickets for Startup Scaleup Week

UK Startup Scaleup Week 2025 is almost here and we can't wait! As premium sponsors, we're proud to be supporting such an inspiring festival that's all about empowering entrepreneurs.

BIC Social

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The 80th anniversary of VE Day was certainly a day to remember at the BIC! Tenants, visitors, local veterans, and even the littlest community members from our onsite nursery came together for a moving two-minute silence, with the Last Post echoing across the site.


The mood then shifted to celebratory, with vintage vibes powering a party in the Atrium packed with retro food, games and community spirit. A brass band on the balcony played 1940s music and live singers performing wartime songs. Our Veterans in Business added extra spirit with a special gathering. The nostalgia was real - and so were the outfits! Were you there? Spot yourself in our gallery>>

"By growing as a person, I've been able to grow a business"

Mam-of-two Kirsty has turned one of the lowest points in her life into the motivation to reinvent her life. Now she wants to help others do the same.

Cleantech pioneer makes waves in offshore wind

North East tech success story Kinewell Energy has scooped a prestigious King's Award for Enterprise, recognising its global impact in driving the transition to Net Zero.

Events

Below is a selection of workshops, pop-up shops and events taking place at the BIC and across the region.



For a full list of events, visit our website and search by topic or events in your area.

3rd June Flying Start Workshop: How to start a business

10th June Level up your fundraising

10th June Flying Start Workshop: How to manage your finances

11th June Connecting for Good: Sunderland

17th June Pride in your business

18th June Creative workshops: Let's create a business map

19th June Measuring social impact

24th June Tenant Meet-up

27th June Growth Lab Sunderland: Me, myself and AI

1st July Northern Powerhouse

View all events

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North East BIC

0191 516 6200 | info@ne-bic.co.uk | www.ne-bic.co.uk

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