The BBC and North East Screen are officially launching the BBC x North East Screen Digital Accelerator – a bold new initiative designed to fast-track the growth of digital-first content companies across the North East and Tees Valley.
The launch event will take place on Monday 3 November at ARC, Stockton-on-Tees, offering production companies, digital creators, and freelancers the chance to hear directly from the BBC team, learn about the scheme, and connect with fellow creatives shaping the region’s digital future.
Announced at the Edinburgh TV Festival 2025, the Digital Accelerator is the BBC’s first-ever digital-focused accelerator, representing the largest investment of its kind in the North East’s digital screen sector. Backed by £600,000 in funding, the programme combines direct investment with tailored mentoring and skills development to unlock long-term creative and commercial potential.
Over a 9–12 month period, up to four independent production companies will be selected to take part. Each will receive funding to develop and produce innovative content formats – from vertical video and livestreams to creator collaborations and platform-native storytelling for TikTok, YouTube, Twitch, and beyond.
Lisa Laws, Development Director at North East Screen:
This is a game-changing moment for the North East’s digital content creators. The Digital Accelerator is all about unleashing bold ideas and backing our best regional talent to shine on global platforms. We’re thrilled to continue our partnership with the BBC, providing this new opportunity to supercharge the next wave of digital content creators from the North East.
The scheme was described by Fiona Campbell, Controller, Youth Audience, BBC iPlayer and BBC Three, as “an exciting collaboration inviting production companies in the region with a commitment to creativity – and a drive to nurture a new generation of digital talent – to step forward. Our ambition is to help create a thriving, sustainable digital production ecosystem in the North East, one that can generate IP for public service and commercial platforms alike.”
For full event details including registering your interest, timings, and networking opportunities, visit the event listing: BBC x North East Screen Digital Accelerator – Launch Event.
The BBC x North East Screen Digital Accelerator builds on our shared ambition to make the North East one of the UK’s most dynamic screen economies. By connecting local talent with national partners and opportunities, we’re ensuring the region continues to grow as a creative hub for bold, digital-first storytelling.
