Digital Union unveils its latest manifesto aimed at strengthening the North East’s technology landscape. This visionary document outlines ways to nurture a thriving digital economy, addressing critical challenges.
Focusing on top concerns like talent shortages, inadequate investment, and post-Brexit uncertainties, the manifesto promises actionable initiatives for change. Collaboration between industry and academia is highlighted as key to future success.
Addressing Talent and Skills Shortages
Digital Union’s manifesto identifies the talent and skills gap as a primary barrier to growth. The organisation aims to bridge this gap by fostering stronger partnerships between educational institutions and businesses. By working closely with local universities, they hope to cultivate a workforce that meets the demands of the evolving tech sector.
According to Rachel Peacock, head of Digital Union, these partnerships are instrumental in nurturing future-ready professionals. ‘Companies collaborating with education providers are witnessing faster growth,’ she noted. This approach is expected to drive innovation and competitiveness across the North East.
Promoting Investment and Support
Investment scarcity is another challenge highlighted in the manifesto. Digital Union is committed to attracting more funding to bolster the region’s tech ecosystem. By campaigning for government support post-Brexit, they aim to secure financial aid essential for business growth.
Additionally, a centralised business advice and information hub is proposed to guide startups and established companies. This hub would serve as a one-stop resource, providing crucial insights and assistance. Encouraging peer-to-peer support is another initiative, facilitating shared knowledge amongst industry players.
Fostering Diversity and Inclusion
Improving diversity and inclusion within the tech industry is central to Digital Union’s agenda. Efforts to create a more inclusive environment focus on supporting underrepresented groups.
Initiatives to promote diversity include targeted training programmes and mentorship schemes. These are designed to empower individuals from varied backgrounds, equipping them with skills to excel in technology roles.
By prioritising diversity, Digital Union aims to enrich the talent pool and foster an innovative, open-minded tech community. Diverse teams are often more creative and effective, making this a crucial area of focus.
Collaborating with Educational Institutions
Strong collaboration between the tech industry and educational institutions is emphasised as vital for progress. Universities like the University of Sunderland play a pivotal role in this partnership, aligning their curriculum with industry needs.
Professor Alastair Irons from the University of Sunderland highlights the importance of developing career-ready graduates. Programmes incorporating the latest technological advancements are essential for producing skilled professionals.
Significant investments are being made to enhance academic offerings and facilities, ensuring graduates are well-prepared. This collaboration is pivotal to addressing the skills gap identified in the manifesto.
The 12-Point Plan for Regional Growth
Digital Union’s 12-point plan lays a comprehensive foundation for regional growth. The plan includes initiatives to boost collaboration, attract investment, and promote innovation.
Key components involve establishing new networks and forums for businesses to connect and share expertise. These platforms aim to catalyse growth through enhanced cooperation.
Efforts to secure funding and resources for startups are also part of the plan, addressing the investment gap. By encouraging regional partnerships, the manifesto seeks to build a resilient tech ecosystem.
The Role of Government and Policy Advocacy
Advocating for favourable government policies is a strategic priority for Digital Union. Ensuring continued post-Brexit support is critical for maintaining momentum in the tech sector.
The manifesto calls for concerted lobbying to ensure national and local governments recognise the sector’s needs. This involves engaging with policymakers to secure necessary funding and resources.
Fostering a supportive regulatory environment is also crucial. By influencing policy, Digital Union aims to create conditions conducive to growth and innovation.
Rachel Peacock emphasises, ‘Advocacy is essential for navigating the complexities of our sector.’
A Commitment to Sustainability
Sustainability is a newfound focus in Digital Union’s manifesto. The organisation recognises the growing importance of sustainable practices in tech.
Initiatives encouraging environmentally friendly operations are outlined, promoting long-term benefits for businesses and the community.
Digital Union aims to lead by example, demonstrating how sustainability can be integrated into tech development. This approach hopes to inspire other organisations to adopt similar practices.
Digital Union’s manifesto is a bold step towards revitalising the North East’s tech industry. Through targeted strategies and collaborative efforts, it promises to overcome persistent challenges.
By focusing on talent, investment, diversity, and sustainability, the manifesto sets a clear path for regional growth and innovation.
