07.08.17
DCLG reveals £15m fund to boost Northern tech and creative industries
The government has announced a £15m tranche of funding available for Northern towns and cities to improve the tech, creative and cultural industries in their region.
The Northern Cultural Regeneration Fund will give councils the chance to “help build a lasting regional legacy from the Great Exhibition of the North”, DCLG said.
Grants of up to £4m will be available to support major culture and tech capital projects, and will build on the impact of the exhibition next year in Newcastle and pave the way for future investment in the Northern Powerhouse.
This exhibition will look to showcase the best of art, design and innovation in the north of England, whilst also engaging communities and businesses in the region.
Projects that could be supported by the new fund could include funding for new tech start-up centres or the renovation of live music venues, and is likely to increase opportunities for people to experience, benefit and contribute to culture and creativity.
“The north is a cultural powerhouse, as well an economic one, and this £15m fund will give a boost to the region’s vibrant culture and tech sectors,” said Northern Powerhouse minister Jake Berry.
“We’ve already invested over £3.4bn in the Northern Powerhouse through the Local Growth Fund for projects to boost local economies and this latest funding will help make a contribution to the cultural life of the Northern Powerhouse for years to come.”
Culture secretary Karen Bradley added that the £15m fund is a fantastic chance for towns and cities to develop inspirational projects that could have a transformative local effect – particularly in communities that have seen less cultural or creative investment in the past.
“We want as many people as possible to benefit from the Great Exhibition of the North, and this fund will boost the Northern Powerhouse and help build a lasting legacy across the whole region,” she stated.
Top Image: Owen Humphreys PA Wire
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