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Durham research reveals North East England leads UK on scaleup growth

A series of roof tops

New research from Durham University Business School reveals the North East England led the UK on business scaleup growth in 2020-2023, challenging long-held assumptions about regional disadvantage.

Research from Durham University’s Smart & Scale programme

The study, conducted through the Business School’s Smart & Scale programme, is led by Dr John Moffat and Dr Stephanie Scott.

The research examined high-growth firms, the barriers they face, and conditions for sustained performance.

Using internationally recognised definitions of scaleup growth, the findings show a more encouraging picture of the North East England economy.

Between 2020 and 2023, North East England recorded the UK’s highest scaleup rate under the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) definition.

1.8 per cent of firms met the definition of average annual growth in employment or turnover of at least 20 per cent over three years and employment of 10 or more. This compares with a UK figure of 1.55 per cent.

Women-led firms exceed national benchmarks

Notably, women-led businesses in North East England outperformed national scaleup rates at the highest growth thresholds.

This challenges assumptions about regional disadvantage and highlights the strength of the region’s pipeline of ambitious, high-performing firms.

The importance of aligned enterprise ecosystems

The study shows aligned enterprise ecosystems are critical for business growth.

Collaboration between universities, support organisations, and policymakers improves outcomes for scaling firms.

It is particularly valuable during economic transition and leadership change.

These findings align with independent evaluations of regional scaleup initiatives, including Scaleup North East.

This programme delivered by RTC North, improved turnover and productivity for participating businesses.

Alongside the Entrepreneurs’ Forum’s Scaleup Leaders’ Academy, these programmes are recognised nationally by the Scaleup Institute.

The research shows such initiatives work best when evidence informed and locally embedded.

They are most effective when connected to a wider ecosystem of expertise and delivery.

Executive Dean, Professor Kieran Fernandes said:

“This research highlights the importance of strong enterprise ecosystems, where collaboration between universities, support organisations, and policymakers is critical to translating ambition and innovation into sustained economic performance.”

Informing future policy and practice

The findings will guide the Business School, partners and policymakers to strengthen North East England’s scaleup capacity. They will help build on successful approaches and support sustainable high-growth enterprise.

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Durham Champions gather to hear county success stories

Left to right: Kate Culverhouse, Banks Group; Michelle Cooper, Point North; Julia Handelman-Smith, Director of Into the Light; Michael Canavan, Durham County Council.

Over 50 businesses, organisations and individuals from across County Durham came together this week for the third Durham Champions meeting.

This county-wide network of people who are passionate about the place and want to see it thrive, heard inspiring talks from Kate Culverhouse, Community Relations Manager at Banks Group – a successful Durham-born and based business celebrating 50 years in 2026; Michael Canavan from Durham County Council, Strategic Lead for Aykley Heads – a unique City Centre development site which is set to be the catalyst for the Durham Innovation District; and Julia Handelman-Smith, Director of Into the Light – a place-based partnership designed to drive long-lasting growth in County Durham through culture.

The event took place on Wednesday 21 January at Redhills, Durham Miners Hall, and provided businesses and individuals who want to work together to promote County Durham, and raise its profile as a place to live, work, invest, study and visit, with great success stories and information on exciting developments which they can share with their own networks and channels. This collaborative approach will see organisations and individuals join forces and unite behind the brand to build the county’s image, identity and reputation, and harness profile-raising opportunities to reach audiences essential for the county’s future economic success.

The county’s place brand, ‘The Durham Story’, is an extraordinary blend of beauty, enterprise, heritage, culture and ambition, found in all four corners of the county. It shines a light on what makes County Durham special, its distinctiveness and character, and the opportunities for growth and development. And since its launch 10 months ago, it has received huge support, with stakeholders welcoming the compelling new proposition and bold approach to showcasing County Durham on a national and international scale.

Cllr Karen Allison, Durham County Council’s Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Tourism, Regeneration and High Streets, said: “The Durham Champions network continues to go from strength to strength with each event bringing together individuals, businesses and organisations who are committed to championing Durham and sharing positive stories about the county. This growing engagement highlights the value of collaboration in raising Durham’s profile and creating future opportunities. It’s encouraging to see the Champions network continue to develop and expand.”

Michelle Cooper, Chief Executive of Point North, hosted the event and said: “Hosting the event today made me realise just how important the Durham Champions are, and the opportunity we have to all help make a difference. The stories we heard were truly inspiring and reflect the passion and ambition we have in abundance across the county. There are still a lot of misconceptions out there about Durham, but by working together and uniting behind our county’s unique story, we can change those opinions and help the county prosper.”

Image: left to right: Kate Culverhouse, Banks Group; Michelle Cooper, Point North; Julia Handelman-Smith, Director of Into the Light; Michael Canavan, Durham County Council.

To find out more sign up to become a Durham Champion.

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Durham Recognised by Which? as one of the UK’s Best Christmas Market Cities

People at Durham Christmas market

Durham has earned national recognition, being named one of the UK’s top Christmas market destinations by Which?. The listing highlights the city’s strong visitor appeal during the winter season and showcases Durham’s fantastic festive events. 

The annual Durham Christmas Market is a significant event for both visitors and businesses. It features over 30 high-quality stalls in Durham Market Place and a further 120 artisan producers in the ticketed marquee on Palace Green, which creates a significant retail and trading opportunity. The market attracts thousands of visitors into the city centre each year. 

This recognition also reflects the strength of Durham’s wider visitor experience. Which? highlighted the city’s cultural assets, walkability, and welcoming, uncrowded atmosphere. 

Durham’s inclusion alongside destinations such as Liverpool, Edinburgh, York, Belfast, Newcastle, Glasgow, Winchester and Wells positions the city within a competitive market and reinforces its reputation as a high-quality festive break destination.

Read the full article at Which.

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Key deal agreed to bring forward Durham Innovation District

Left to right: Professor Mike Shipman, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, Durham University; Cllr Andrew Husband, Leader of Durham County Council; and Phil Mayall, managing director at Muse.

Plans to develop an innovation district of national significance in Durham City have taken a major step forward, with the signing of a key agreement.

Muse, Durham County Council and Durham University have signed a Collaboration Agreement to accelerate the development of the Aykley Heads site as a hub for investment and innovation. The site is part of the Durham Innovation District in the heart of the historic city.

This follows the announcement of the Joint Venture and Development Management Agreement between Muse and the county council in May this year.

Signing the Collaboration Agreement is a key step for moving Aykley Heads forward. It sets out how the joint venture and the university will work together to deliver the project and help grow the wider Durham Innovation District.

The innovation district brings together ‘Triple Helix’ partners including local government, universities, and businesses to work together. It already includes major organisations such as Durham University Business School, North East Chamber of Commerce, Durham Constabulary, Waterstons, and council offices at Salvus House and Corten House. It also includes The Rivergreen Centre, which is being refurbished to become the council’s new headquarters, in place of County Hall which is to be demolished. The Aykley Heads area also has planning permission for 40,000 square metres of offices.

This new public-private partnership, supported by the university, is expected to create thousands of new jobs and to become a regional hub for research and innovation. Ideally located with easy access to major road networks and the nearby railway station, the site is also set to be of significant interest to major investors.

Phil Mayall, managing director at Muse, said: “County Durham already has a strong innovation ecosystem and this has been bolstered further with recent Government backing to create an AI Growth Zone in the North East region. Aykley Heads will provide a high-quality environment to encourage the growth of existing businesses and attract others to the region.

“It will also help to balance out the city core by revitalising the area, creating a vibrant and exciting new employment destination. Ourselves and Durham County Council are incredibly proud to have signed the agreement with Durham University and look forward to progressing this shared long-term vision together.”

Cllr Andrew Husband, Leader of Durham County Council, said: “The signing of the agreement is a major step forward and demonstrates the momentum we are building. Aykley Heads will deliver thousands of quality jobs for our residents and will be a significant driving force for County Durham’s future economic growth, as well as that of the wider North East.

“We’re really excited to be working with a world leading research institution in Durham University and Muse – with its impressive development track record. Add in the financial backing of the North East Combined Authority and what we have here is a powerful combination that will act as that important catalyst for future growth.”

Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University, said: “The development of Aykley Heads and the Durham Innovation District is a unique opportunity to catalyse inclusive, innovative and sustainable growth in our region, by attracting new investment and creating new, high-quality jobs.

“We look forward to working with Durham County Council to ensure our communities benefit most from this nationally significant project.”

The Durham Innovation District is also backed by North East Mayor Kim McGuinness and the North East Combined Authority as one of the region’s biggest and most significant investment opportunities. It has invested £9.2 million in the partnership as part of its programme to support economic growth and create opportunities for local people, while helping Durham enhance its role within the wider region.

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Former Unilever CEO opens Durham University business school

Durham University Business School

A new university business school facility has been opened by a former Unilever CEO.

Paul Polman, a global business leader and environmentalist, officially opened Durham University Business School’s new Waterside building.

At the opening, Mr Polman addressed the audience of business leaders, academics, and policy leaders, highlighting the ‘extraordinary disruption’ the world is facing and the need for a shift in leadership mindset.

He said: “I would argue we are short of the right leaders we need to succeed – and that’s where you come in.

“It’s in the rough seas where you learn leadership.

“Here at Durham, you already punch above your weight.

“With the opening of this wonderful Waterside building, you are setting yourselves up very well for success.”

Mr Polman, who was previously the chief executive of Unilever, called for business leaders to adopt a ‘net positive’ mindset, asking not ‘how can I do less harm?’ but ‘how can I do more good?’

The Waterside building, which has achieved a Gold SKA rating for sustainability, is located in the heart of Durham city, close to the railway station and city centre.

The new facility complements the existing Mill Hill Lane facility and includes lecture theatres, a financial trading lab with Bloomberg terminals, executive facilities, offices, study spaces, and a Riverfront Bistro.

Durham University Business School, established in 1965, is among the top one per cent of business schools worldwide with triple accreditation from AACSB, AMBA, and Equis.

It delivers research and education in finance, leadership, and sustainability, and has nearly 400 business partnerships.

The opening event was attended by leaders from business, politics, academia, and civic society.

Mr Polman gave the keynote address, with contributions from Professor O’Brien, and Professors Cathy Cassell and Kieran Fernandes, the outgoing and incoming executive deans of Durham University Business School, respectively.

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Exciting new Story launched for Durham

People stood in front of the Durham Story board and banners

An exciting new approach to promoting the county was unveiled yesterday (18 March), with over 80 stakeholders attending the launch of the ‘Durham Story’.

The event, hosted by Durham County Council and Durham University at Gala Durham, was the culmination of a 12-month project which has seen engagement with hundreds of stakeholders from across the region, to identify a compelling new proposition for the county which will showcase Durham on a global scale.

Spearheaded by Durham County Council, Durham University, Visit County Durham and Business Durham, this new approach will see organisations and individuals join forces and unite behind the brand to build the county’s image, identity and reputation, and harness profile-raising opportunities to reach key audiences.

With a clear and consistent approach across multiple sectors, the Durham story will enable the county to engage and inspire potential investors, businesses, students and visitors, whilst instilling pride in our resident and business communities.

The Durham story is an extraordinary blend of beauty, enterprise, heritage, culture and ambition, found in all four corners of the county. It shines a light on what makes us special, the distinctiveness and character of Durham, and the opportunities for the growth, development and promotion of the county. Embodied by four key strands, the Durham story was introduced at the event by private and public sector partners.

Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University introduced the overarching theme for Durham, which sees us confidently championing our regional, national and international role.

Jim Cokill, trust director of Durham Wildlife Trust spoke about the ‘natural lifestyle’ strand – our incredible green and blue spaces, nature and wildlife, and the many ways in which they positively impact residents, businesses, visitors and students. ‘Contemporising and connecting our culture’ is the second strand, highlighting the county’s world-class culture and how it’s brought to life for today’s audiences, which was introduced by Hannah Fox, executive director of The Bowes Museum. The ‘space to innovate and grow’ strand, which focuses on the county as a place for business as well as our strengths within the space industry, was introduced by Arnab Basu, CEO of Kromek. With the final strand of the Durham story, ‘a special city that attracts and radiates’, focussing on the pivotal role the city plays as an attractor for the wider county, was introduced by Emma Gaudern, CEO of EMG Solicitors.

Also announced at the event was the Durham Champions initiative, which will see an exciting new network of individuals helping to shine a light on the county through their own activities, supporting the promotion of the county in a consistent and compelling way.

Cllr Amanda Hopgood, Leader of Durham County Council, said: “County Durham is an amazing place with so much to offer, whether as a place to live, visit, work or invest. And, while we might be tempted to keep it for ourselves, encouraging others to discover what our area has to offer is vital for our future prosperity.

“We want people to think of County Durham when they are looking for somewhere to visit, to know that there are thousands of great job opportunities here and to make us their first choice when looking to set up home. And we want investors to be very clear that we offer a brilliant place to do business.

“The place brand will help us achieve this by cementing the good work that has already been done to develop County Durham’s reputation, through further raising the area’s profile and supporting our economic and social growth.”

Professor Karen O’Brien, Vice-Chancellor of Durham University added:

“The University works closely with our partner organisations on many projects to benefit the growth, development and promotion of our city, county and region. We very much look forward to strengthening these connections and to highlighting even more prominently all that makes Durham special, telling our powerful story regionally, nationally and globally.”