Digital entrepreneurs and tech-innovators are being invited to pitch their ideas in a Dragon\u2019s Den-style contest ahead of the creation of one of the region\u2019s largest employment parks.<\/p>\n
South Tyneside Council is staging the Tech Challenge 2017 competition to encourage people and businesses to come up with digital solutions for the manufacturing sector ahead of the development of the International Advanced Manufacturing Park on the border between South Tyneside and Sunderland.<\/p>\n
Nissan, Dyer Engineering and Cell Pack Solutions are among the manufacturers who have taken part in a research project coordinated by Digital Catapult Centre North East & Tees Valley to identify challenges currently facing the sector.<\/p>\n
Entrants are invited to submit an idea to address those challenges and those shortlisted will have to pitch before a panel of judges from both the technology and manufacturing sectors.<\/p>\n
The winner will receive \u00a35,000 cash to progress their solution, a year\u2019s free office space at the award-winning One Trinity Green in South Shields and a mentoring package from BT. There will also be several runners-up prizes.<\/p>\n
Coun John Anglin, South Tyneside\u2019s lead member for regeneration and economy, said: \u201cICT and digital is one of our priority sectors and we are looking to position the area as innovative and efficient in developing technology solutions for the automotive and advanced manufacturing sectors.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe development of the International Advanced Manufacturing Park will present an excellent opportunity for digital and tech businesses in the region to showcase their capabilities to manufacturers.<\/p>\n
\u201cIn terms of job creation and attracting inward investment and we are really looking to nurture and grow this sector within the borough.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe already have several flourishing tech companies based at One Trinity Green which is growing into a vibrant community for this sector and we\u2019d like to tap in the talent of more entrepreneurs with this competition.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe prize is superb and would be a real springboard for any business.\u201d<\/p>\n