According to research by O2, the UK will need skills of 2.3 million digital workers by 2020.
O2 predicted that 766,000 jobs will be created over the next five years with 47% of these in London or the south-east.
These figures have created concerns over the impact of the Northern Powerhouse technology growth initiatives, with only 8% of jobs predicted to surface in the north-west and east of England.
O2 has since launched a Digital Communities pilot in St Helens, Merseyside, which will encourage young people to pursue digital careers outside London.
Business director, Ben Dowd, said: “It’s promising to see so many jobs will be required to fulfil the UK’s digital potential. But we can’t get complacent – these figures highlight that the economy is nowhere near digital maturity and – worryingly – the opportunities that are being created, are predominantly in the south.
“We’re committed to playing our part – which is why we’ve launched an ambitious partnership with St Helens Council to show other communities what’s possible when they put connectivity at their heart.”
O2 hopes to create a “blueprint” to allow other areas in the country to showcase the benefits of connectivity.