Leeds’ technology sector has transformed over the past decade, creating an ecosystem that is retaining graduates, drawing in established firms and offering an alternative to London, according to Leeds Digital Festival director Stuart Clarke.
Clarke, who will step down as festival director in September after 10 years in the role to become non-executive chair, said the city’s distinctive culture, closer links with universities and stronger collaboration have been key to its growth.
“We’ve seen a real shift,” he told Planet Sport CMO Andy Roberts.
“Ten years ago, you could count the number of startups in the city on one hand and lots of the bright young talent from local universities would often move to London if they wanted to build a startup, because the money and the possibilities were there.”
“We’re so much better at keeping talent now, because we’ve got an ecosystem to support it.
“The chances are, if you’re a second or third year at one of the universities in Leeds, you’ll know someone a year or two ahead of you who’s stayed in the city and either worked for a tech firm or built their own startup.”
The Leeds Digital Festival itself has grown from a pub meeting in 2015 into the UK’s largest open-platform tech event.
Clarke continued: “People say yes here, whether it’s giving young people a chance, sharing knowledge or introducing potential clients.
“It’s something unique to Leeds, and it helps companies grow while staying rooted in the city.”
Local focus combined with more venture capital, a new angel investor network and greater engagement between employers and students, has created fertile ground for startups.
Networks such as Leeds Digital and Digital Sport North have helped bring together students, founders, established companies and investors.
“Growing a business becomes so much easier when you’ve got those connections and you’re not working in isolation,” the BusinessCloud Northern Leader added.
Clarke will remain involved in the sector through his PR & marketing work at Paceline, his role with UK Tech Week and as a non-executive board member of Leeds Digital Festival.
The festival will now be led by Deb Hetherington, a respected figure in the city’s digital and tech community.
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