Startup Awards North East How it works
Startup Awards North East unites our business ecosystem and supports early stage founders throughout their journey to drive economical and social impact for the North East.
Delivering high energy, yearlong, engaging activities which provide meaningful connections for applicants of all levels and alongside our partners.

if you're curious about starting up
Do you love the idea of being your own boss? Do you want to make some extra cash and have a side hustle alongside your current role or studies?
You may not even have a business idea but you want to explore opportunities, or if you do have an idea this is the perfect opportunity to test ideas without having to take that scary leap into the unknown. Your application to SkillUP can provide you with the support you need.
You will meet likeminded peers, mentors and have the opportunity to develop your passion and ideas to begin your startup journey.

If you've Just started
Are you a registered sole trader or business with Companies House for less than 4 years? Are you starting to gain interest and support but are looking to generate more business enquires?
Do you need resources such as funding or advice on how to give your startup the boost that it needs so you can quit your day job and focus on your journey to success?
You will be immersed into the regions business community and have access to all the resources you need to make your startup a success.

Looking to Grow your startup
Do you have a solid business plan and customers generating you revenue but have ambitions to grow and scale up your business?
If you want to take action and are looking to really grow your business but need support and the right connections to help you to hire staff, get your next premises or expand your supply chain and get funding opportunities to help you to grow then ScaleUP is for you.
You will make real connections to the right people who can provide support, advice and services to take your business to the next level.
Awards timeline
Launch
January - MarchAccelerate
April - MayShortlisting
May - JuneCelebrate
JuneSupport
July - December
Eligibility
The Startup Awards North East are fully inclusive, and open to anyone over 16 years old in the North East Region. Whether you are curious about starting up and want to explore opportunities and ideas, or you are a registered sole trader or business established less than 4 years the awards are open to all levels of experience so there is a category to suit you.
To see the full list of criteria please take a look at the Awards Terms and Conditions