Business Support in Sunderland

Starting a business, taking on your first employee or looking for bigger premises can feel daunting, but Sunderland has a well-established network of support. Some of it comes from public bodies and the university, some from long-running enterprise centres, and some from local business networks. This guide sets out the main sources of help in November 2026, from the idea stage through to growth. Programmes and funding change often, so check each organisation's website for what is currently open.

North East BIC

The North East BIC, or North East Business and Innovation Centre, is at Wearfield on Sunderland Enterprise Park, north of the river. It has supported new businesses in the region for many years and combines workspace with start-up advice.

People setting up a business in Tyne and Wear, Durham or Northumberland can book one-to-one sessions with business advisers and attend Flying Start workshops, which cover topics such as business planning, marketing and finance, with many sessions now online. The BIC also runs Veterans RV, a 12-week programme of mentoring and training for armed forces veterans starting a business, and Business for Good, which supports social enterprises.

For premises, the centre offers flexible offices, coworking, industrial units, laboratories and meeting rooms, with an on-site IT team.

Best for: Suits anyone at the idea stage who wants structured advice, and small firms looking for flexible premises.

Sunderland City Council

The council's Business Investment Team works with companies that are growing, relocating to Sunderland or looking for sites and premises in the city. It can help with finding property, introductions to other support and information on any grant schemes the council is running at the time. If you are a small business, it is also worth checking whether you qualify for business rates relief, which the council administers. Our council services guide has more on contacting the council.

North East Growth Hub

The North East Growth Hub, run by the North East Combined Authority, is an online starting point for businesses across the region. It brings together information on funding, advice and events from many different providers, and can put you in touch with a business adviser who will point you to the programmes that fit. It is a sensible first step if you are unsure where to begin.

University and technology support

The University of Sunderland's enterprise hub, Hope Street Xchange, in the city centre, supports student and graduate start-ups and works with local businesses on innovation and research. Sunderland Software City supports digital and technology businesses across the region, with programmes for start-ups and growing tech firms, and is connected with the Sunderland Software Centre on Tavistock Place.

Networks and events

Meeting other business owners is often as useful as formal advice.

• North East Chamber of Commerce represents businesses across the region and runs networking events, training and international trade support for members.
• Sunderland BID, the city centre business improvement district, works with businesses in the centre on events, marketing and the street environment.
• Sunderland Business Partnership brings together businesses and organisations with an interest in the city's economy.
• Sunderland Business Week, held each autumn and now in its sixth year, brings a programme of events for local firms.

Finance for start-ups

The government-backed Start Up Loans scheme, run by the British Business Bank, offers personal loans to people starting or in the early years of a business, with a period of mentoring. Regional investment funds, which include loans and equity investment, are listed through the Growth Hub. Always read the terms carefully and take advice before borrowing.

Professional advice

Most new businesses need an accountant early on, to choose a business structure, register for tax and keep records that meet Making Tax Digital rules. Our accountants guide covers TTR Barnes, Stafford Accountancy and Your Digital Accountant, all of which work with small businesses and start-ups.

Legal advice can help with leases, contracts, employment and company formation. Tilly Bailey & Irvine has a business department covering commercial property, disputes, corporate and employment work, and our solicitors guide lists other Sunderland firms.

Best for: An accountant and a solicitor are worth speaking to before you sign a lease or take on staff.

Where to start

1. Check the Growth Hub to see what support and funding is open.
2. Book a start-up session at the North East BIC if you are at the idea stage.
3. Talk to an accountant about structure and tax before you start trading.
4. Contact the council's Business Investment Team if you are looking for premises or planning to expand.
5. Join a network to meet other business owners in the city.

If you are moving to the city to set up a business, our moving to Sunderland guide covers the areas and practicalities. Other professional services are in the directory.

Know a Sunderland business support organisation we have missed? Get in touch.