Inside UMi

With support from UMi through the Durham Business Growth and Productivity Programme, Encore secured a grant to unlock the full potential of their new automated warehouse. The site was disconnected by the previous tenant, meaning not only the purchase of the assets was needed, but also new software created from scratch to breathe life back into the systems.

The Meet A Mama project in Consett is helping new mothers overcome isolation and build lasting friendships. Supported by the UMi Community Fund, Clart About’s sensory café offers a welcoming space for mums to connect, share experiences, and focus on wellbeing.

For years, many founders have believed that raising equity in the North East is next to impossible – particularly for women and those in emerging sectors like climate tech. But Amy Mooney, Founder of Mutha Cuva, is turning that assumption on its head.

UMi has reached a major milestone by unlocking more than £1 billion in investment for British businesses since its launch in 2007.

UMi is set to buck industry trends by creating more than a dozen new roles as it expands throughout the UK. The recruitment drive is a result of ambitious plans to launch a series of new business support and advice services across the nation.

On the 31 July, the UK Government launched its Small Business Plan that it hopes will unlock the full potential of the country’s 5.5 million small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Called “Backing Your Business”, the plan sets out a multi-year strategy aimed at helping SMEs grow, boost productivity, and navigate a smoother path to success. 

Ambition North Wales has launched its £24.6 million North Wales Clean Energy Fund, aimed at accelerating the region’s transition to a low-carbon economy.

UMi supports Northumbrian Water Group to drive biodiversity net gain in UK infrastructure, leading a cross-sector sprint at the NWG Innovation Festival to deliver practical, scalable environmental solutions.