By Katie Gallagher, Managing Director at Manchester Digital
As we wrap up 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on the progress we’ve collectively made over the past year. It’s been a challenging time for many businesses, but thanks to the commitment and support of our members, partners, and supporters, we have been able to drive real impact across the North West.
Here are some of the key highlights we’re proud to share:
Strengthening our community:
- 147 tech and digital businesses joined Manchester Digital, including industry leaders such as IBM, Hitachi, Amazon and Bet365.
- We brought the tech industry together to share knowledge through events such as: Digital Skills Festival; Fintech and Ecommerce Conferences and recently, our new Emerging Tech Conference.
- Launched our Startup Activator programme, with nine summer roadshows and our six month Initiate programme.
Thought leadership and influence:
- We launched our Greater Manchester Mayoral Manifesto in April, which created a real spotlight on the growth of our regional tech ecosystem and how the (now re-elected) GM Mayor Andy Burnham can play a key role in continuing to grow and develop as a leading tech hub.
- We held a drinks reception at the Labour Party Conference in October to champion regional tech ecosystems with various MPs.
- We hosted several Ministerial visits and held roundtable discussions with national and regional government.
Increasing diversity and inclusion in tech
- Our Digital Her programme was awarded ‘Diversity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year’ at the Women in Tech Excellence Awards, from Computing UK.
- We ran some very well attended and engaged events, including: Digital Her Day at the Digital Skills Festival, Ada Lovelace Breakfast event at Booking.com; a workshop at Manchester Tech Festival, multiple Industry Insights Days for young female students with several of our partners, and lastly, our Winter Social event.
Transforming careers through digital skills
- 35 apprentices were supported through programmes, across Software Development, Data Analyst and Business Analyst pathways.
- An impressive 100% achievement rate and 77.7% earning high grades.
- Rated a ‘Good Provider’ in our Ofsted inspection, with apprentices recognised as confident, competent future leaders.
Looking Ahead to 2025
As we look ahead to 2025, our focus is clear: delivering progress for the North West’s tech sector.
With plans for new conferences, a refreshed Digital Skills Festival, and a continued drive to support businesses and talent, we’re ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Thank you for being part of our work this year. Together, we’re building a stronger, more resilient digital community. Here’s to making even greater progress in 2025.
