Investment tour launched to bring London startups to Leeds

CREATIVE and digital organisation Media Yorkshire has announced plans for an investment tour to Leeds.

The industry-led organisation is bringing London-based startups to Leeds to showcase the city and everything it has to offer.

A partnership between Leeds City Council, Allied London’s Leeds Dock and Media Yorkshire brought the tour forward.

The two-day tour in March will include a visit to the co-working space at Leeds Dock, visits to technology businesses in the region including aql and Sky.

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Stuart Clarke, director of Media Yorkshire, said: “In London, founders of startups often find it easier to access financial and operational support.

“However the costs of growing a startup in London are forcing many startups to look outside the city as increasing office and accommodation costs, plus the higher salaries of additional staff, are making it difficult to expand.

As a result of the difficult conditions in London, said Mr Clarke, “66% of London startups consider relocation within 12 months of starting up.”

Councillor James Lewis, deputy leader and executive member for resources and strategy at Leeds City Council said: “Leeds is a thriving hub for creative and digital sectors. In supporting young businesses to choose our city to expand we create new jobs and build on the exisiting pool of talen, which benefits the wider economy.”

Estate agents Parklane will be showing the businesses accommodation in the city.

Media Yorkshire was founded by Campfire PR owner Nathan Lane, founder of TheBusinessDesk.com and COPA Summit, David Parkin and industry champion Stuart Clarke.

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