The Digital Pathfinders programme, delivered by Sunderland Software City and funded by the North East Combined Authority, has expanded south of the Tyne.

It will now offer fully funded digital support to SMEs, charities and social enterprises in Durham, Gateshead, Sunderland and South Tyneside — helping more organisations adopt technology, boost productivity and future-proof their operations.

The programme, currently serving Newcastle, North Tyneside and Northumberland, has supported more than 450 organisations since 2020, creating 40 jobs.

Free one-to-one sessions and workshops on AI, website development and digital marketing are available until March 2026.