Sunderland Software City has announced an exciting new partnership with the North East’s leading independent law firm for businesses, Muckle LLP, to help support the region’s growing technology sector.

Since 2008, Sunderland Software City has successfully supported the digital growth of more than 500 companies across the North East, establishing the region as one of the world’s leading destinations for technology innovation and enterprise.

Recent research from RSM stated the number of new tech companies in the North East rose by almost 80% in 2017, highlighting that the region could become the UK’s next tech hotspot.

In total, 173 software development and programming businesses were incorporated in the region in 2017 – compared with 97 companies set up in 2016.

Sunderland Software City is a private sector initiated and publicly backed organisation.

It brings together the best of the public, private and educational sectors to generate a sustainable software industry and drive the development of world class technology businesses across the North East. It is also part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund.

Now Sunderland Software City has announced Muckle LLP as its preferred and recommended legal supplier to service tech businesses and technology focused commercial projects throughout the region.

Billy Webber, Chief Operating Officer, said: “We’re delighted to announce our partnership with Muckle LLP.

“When we were looking for a preferred legal services provider, it became clear that Muckle shared our business focus and firm commitment to the North East region.

“The technology sector is growing rapidly. Not only does Muckle have dedicated expertise in this area, it has a reputation for being highly responsive, which is a major advantage in an industry that is constantly evolving.

“What struck us most about the Muckle team however, was their down to earth approach – their lawyers don’t use jargon and speak to business people on their level, while at the same time providing first class legal advice. Perfect for supporting the diverse range of businesses we work with.”

Alex Craig, Head of Commercial and Partner at Muckle LLP, has over 17 years’ experience specialising in IT and IP matters.

She said: “It’s fantastic to become the recommended legal supplier for Sunderland Software City.

“This partnership makes perfect sense and we’re confident that our shared commitment to helping digital business and companies with tech needs, will contribute to boosting both the North East’s technology sector and the regional economy as a whole.”

Muckle LLP’s technology team provides advice on a wide range of issues including: the commercialisation of technology and digital solutions; legal, regulatory and operational issues arising from mobile operations; cloud storage, online payments and ISO compliance.

Lawyers also advise on everything from IT infrastructure arrangements to cybersecurity, data breaches and preparing for the new General Data Protection Regulation.

To find out more about Sunderland Software City, please visit https://sunderlandsoftwarecity.com/

To find out more about Muckle LLP, please visit https://muckle-llp.com/