British Esports & Sunderland Software City: Boost Esports Business Cluster Through UKSPF Grant

Adam McGowan

4 min read | 28 Nov 2023

Sunderland City Council has announced a comprehensive suite of support programmes aimed at stimulating business growth across the region. These initiatives, funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), mark a significant investment of over £5 million in grants distributed across nine business support packages until March 2025.

Transformative Impact: UKSPF Business Support Programs

Councillor Graeme Miller, leader of Sunderland City Council, emphasises the role of these programmes in providing a major boost to the city’s economy. The initiatives aim to equip entrepreneurs and businesses with the tools necessary to unlock their potential and fuel continuous growth. The UKSPF aligns with the government’s Levelling Up agenda, striving to enhance the standard of living across the UK through investing in communities, supporting local businesses and encouraging skills development.

The Esports Business Cluster: A Strategic Collaboration

Sunderland is becoming the leading global location for esports, British Esports Federation and Sunderland Software City have joined hands to introduce the Esports Business Cluster programme. This collaborative effort seeks to create a strategic network that brings together esports businesses, offering acceleration and growth opportunities within the esports industry.

A Vision for Sunderland: The Role of Esports in Economic Growth

This initiative aligns with our mission to promote, support and advance the esports industry. The Esports Business Cluster aims to position Sunderland as a key player in the global esports sector, attracting talent, businesses and investors to the region. 

By providing resources, expertise and a collaborative platform, it focuses on creating a thriving ecosystem that fosters innovation and business development within the esports industry.

Navigating the Future: Collaboration and Innovation

As Sunderland embarks on this exciting journey of economic development, the Esports Business Cluster stands out as a testament to the city’s commitment to innovation, teamwork and the future of esports. Together, with the help of British Esports Federation and Sunderland Software City, Sunderland is poised to become a thriving hub for esports excellence.

Learn More and Get Involved

To discover more about the Esports Business Cluster and other business support initiatives under the UKSPF, visit the official Sunderland City Council website at https://www.sunderland.gov.uk/UKSPF or reach out to the Council’s Business Investment Team via email at business@sunderland.gov.uk. Join us in shaping Sunderland’s future as a dynamic hub for esports and economic growth.