Case Study
27th September 2024
Sunderland’s smart city vision is built on a commitment to nurturing digital talent and promoting digital inclusivity across Wearside.
Sunderland City Council’s Smart City team is focused on developing a pipeline of digital talent, essential for the economic growth and sustainability of our region in years to come. Through our Digital Inclusion programme, we’re bridging the digital divide for a smarter, more connected and inclusive Sunderland: making strides towards a future where no one and nowhere is left behind.
Sunderland’s transformation into a smart city is not just about technology; it’s about people. Sunderland City Council and our partners are dedicated to ensuring that everyone in their community can thrive thanks to technological advancements.
Our Smart City team was excited to support Gen D, a community interest company established in June 2024 dedicated to supporting people to develop digital confidence, and nurture digital arts talent. Through its inclusive, community-based programmes, Gen D CIC enables people to explore the imaginative world of digital arts while also preparing them for the demands of the modern digital economy. Gen D’s commitment to providing accessible opportunities for people to develop their skills and pursue careers in digital arts aligns with our smart city’s broader vision to cultivate a pipeline of local digital talent, which is vital for the city’s economic growth and resilience.
Gen D hosted its soft launch in August 2024 at the TechHub in The Beam, a state-of-the-art tech space in Sunderland’s city centre. The TechHub, developed in collaboration with Sunderland City Council, Phoenix Software, and Microsoft, is a facility designed to improve digital accessibility throughout the region. With fast, reliable connectivity and a secure, creative atmosphere, it provides an ideal environment for innovation and learning.
The event was attended by 25 guests from a range of local organisations, including Together for Children, the Sunderland BME Network, the Sunderland Bangladesh International Centre, Karima’s Poetry, and Friends of the Drop-In. This gathering marked the official start of Gen D’s mission to promote digital creativity across Sunderland.
Gen D has already engaged with 51 individuals from a range of age, ethnicity and faith groups, through digital art taster sessions, delivering training, and consultations with local entrepreneurs and businesses. By nurturing digital arts talent, Gen D is laying the groundwork for a digitally empowered future: one where creativity and technology unite to unlock new opportunities for individuals, communities, and businesses across Sunderland.
Jamal Begg, co-founder of Gen D, said “It has been an exciting journey for Gen D and we are grateful for all the support we received from Sunderland City Council, as well as Sunderland Culture, Sunderland Software City, Sunderland BME Network, for all the collaborations and partnerships.”
“The Tech Hub space offered to us by the Council’s Smart City Team has been an instrumental springboard for Gen D and all its progress. We look forward to offer provisions that foster creativity across all ages, backgrounds and skill levels that is much needed in the communities in our city, a unique space for community members to explore, create, and connect through digital art.”
“We are thrilled to offer a platform that empowers children, youth and adults to tap into their creativity and develop new skills while being part of a vibrant community where digital art is celebrated, learned, and shared in an inclusive and accessible environment. We are excited for what the future might hold for digital art in Sunderland, and for all the volunteers and participants that engage in digital art through Gen D.”
The support provided by Sunderland City Council’s Smart City team not only helps Gen D, but also underscores the council’s broader commitment to nurturing local talent and ensuring that both individuals and businesses have the resources they need to succeed.
Through investment in local talent and offering facilities such as The TechHub for learning, growth and innovation, Sunderland is leading the way in creating a vibrant, digitally connected community where everyone has the chance to succeed.
The TechHub is available to be booked by local businesses, schools, and voluntary organisations until May 2025. If you are interested in using the TechHub, get in touch using our contact form.
Learn more about Gen D’s vision and mission, or get involved as a volunteer and attend future digital art sessions by visiting their website.