Another chance for start-ups to join best in class at Leeds Digital

The hub, located in the heart of Leeds, offers premium flexible office space, access to professional services advice and an opportunity to learn from and collaborate with some of the most exciting digital businesses in the city.

A handful of opportunities remain for businesses to join the dynamic initiative, launched by The Yorkshire Post in partnership with Leeds Metropolitan University.

Would-be tenants have just under three weeks to submit their applications, before a Dragons Den-style panel selects the best and brightest businesses to join the project.

This summer saw the first tenants – The UK App Company, Immedia, phase90, Snowball Digital and The Capture Lab – move into the space after impressing the judges at a previous panel.

Rob Julian, director of digital media production specialists The Capture Lab, said being based in the hub has built confidence in the company.

Following his first month in the hub, he said: “You can really concentrate on developing your business.

“It’s given me the chance to meet new people, rub shoulders with them and get ideas.”

In addition to state-of-the-art office space, Leeds Digital Hub tenants can tap advice and skills from prominent professionals.

Software entrepreneur and QU2 trainer Steve Baker will provide expert mentoring, while law firm DWF and accountancy practice WGN will provide professional services. Media training is also available.

Business and community leaders have backed the programme. Leeds City Council chief executive Tom Riordan said: “This is an excellent initiative.

“It builds on the strong foundation of creative and digital businesses that have been the hallmark of the Leeds economy.”

IT entrepreneur Neil Warnock, of Bluesmith Information Systems, hailed the hub as a “digital entrepreneur’s dream”.

Organisers are welcoming applications from early stage, start-up and established companies.

The final date for applications is September 16, with the next judging event on September 23.

Visit http://www.qu2leeds.co.uk/ for more information.