New chapter for BIC as chief prepares to retire
The chief executive of one of the North East’s most pioneering business support organisations is to step down after 25 years at the helm. Paul McEldon OBE, who joined the North East BIC in 1994 before being appointed as chief executive in 2001, has announced he will retire from executive leadership next year, providing time […]
The North East Surveying Co scales up at the BIC
A Sunderland-based property consultancy, has secured office space at the North East BIC as it launches a new specialist division to help regional landlords navigate shifting landscapes. The North East Surveying Co, founded by Chartered Building Surveyor Martin Watson, has seen steady growth since its launch in 2023. Having joined the BIC’s coworking space, Martin […]
Sunderland couple “reframe” regional wellness scene
A husband and wife duo are turning personal adversity into business innovation with the launch of ReFrame Health and Wellness Club at the North East BIC. Founders Lauren and Matt Harding officially open their specialist reformer Pilates studio doors on Monday 18 May, marking a significant pivot following a series of life-altering health challenges. The […]
Football coach proves he has the skills to pay the bills
A young football coach has realised his dream of setting up his own business after receiving support from a team of regional business experts. Frazer Barker, 19, from Washington, set up Technical Focus after working for another football coaching business and being inspired to set up on his own. Providing group coaching as well as […]
Experienced operator to run trio of city business centres
Sunderland City Council has appointed a managing agent to ensure the continued success of three city business centres. The North East Business & Innovation Centre (BIC), one of the region’s leading providers of business support and workspace, has been appointed to manage Sunderland Software Centre, Evolve Business Centre and Washington Business Centre. Sunderland City Council […]
Creative community welcomes Crown Works development
Sunderland’s creative economy is set for a major boost, as plans for the highly anticipated Crown Works Studios gather pace. Construction of the landmark 125,000 sq. ft complex in Pallion could begin as early as July, creating a super-sized space for film, TV, live events, and gameshows. Having seen a 130% rise in screen production […]
New Sunderland counselling service champions cultural understanding
A new Sunderland-based community counselling service has launched to improve access to culturally informed mental health support. Al-Falaq Counselling, a community interest company founded by qualified counsellor Chompa Syeda Begum (MBACP), was set up to provide inclusive counselling services that remove cultural, language and faith-based barriers that can prevent people from seeking mental health support. […]
Sunderland entrepreneur unveils next phase of her vision for former bank
Entrepreneur Nicola Vallely is embarking on the next phase of her transformation of a former Sunderland high street bank, with plans to turn the upper floor into a new beauty and wellbeing hub. The development continues Nicola’s reinvention of the old Lloyd’s Bank building on Sea Road, Fulwell, which she has already brought back to […]
Former nurse carves out new career with furniture restoration business
A former nurse from Sunderland has turned his love of restoring old furniture into a thriving business. After a career in nursing spanning 13 years, it was the loss of his father that inspired Michael Veitch to ditch his scrubs and finally launch his dream business. Sakura Vinteriors launched in January and is a sustainable […]
Specialist training provider puts decontamination centre stage
A specialist decontamination business is continuing to build on years of success by bringing together NHS trusts from across the region for a dedicated industry forum. All Things Decontamination (ATD) Ltd, founded by former Royal Air Force engineer Tony Sullivan, delivers specialist decontamination training, auditing and consultancy services to hospitals and organisations across the North […]