Digital Confidence Soars as Accelerate Ashington Programme Concludes
The Accelerate Ashington programme has officially concluded, celebrating the successful delivery of 73 digital transformation projects that have helped businesses across Ashington strengthen their online presence, increase customer engagement, and embrace digital innovation.
Launched to support local enterprises in modernising their digital capabilities, the programme has delivered; 24 Website Design & Development projects, 44 Digital Marketing Campaigns, and 5 Digital Audits. The programme also provided start up business and enterprise support via workshops both online and in person offering advice on organisational planning, finance and business planning and marketing and sales.
Accelerate Ashington was delivered by Northumberland County Council and funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity fund and the North East Combined Authority with the North East Combined Authority as the lead authority. Accelerate Ashington is part of the Regenerating Ashington Programme to grow, renew and connect the town delivered by Northumberland County Council.
The programme has supported a diverse range of businesses, from creative studios to manufacturers and professional specialist services, equipping them with practical tools, strategies, and confidence to digitally thrive.
Programme manager Andrew Plant said, “Accelerate Ashington has been a fantastic engaging journey. Seeing the positive impact on local businesses has truly demonstrated the value of focused digital support. This programme leaves a legacy of innovation, growth, and digital confidence in our community.”
Local businesses have also shared their experiences and the difference the programme made Jake Sansom from WA Management said, “This funding was the perfect opportunity to explore the feasibility of an area of marketing that we haven’t previously engaged in.”
Marie Kyle from Northern Ice Blasting said, “The support is great, and the team are very knowledgeable. It helped us understand more about online presence and what works best for our business.”
These case studies highlight how the programme has improved digital confidence, visibility, and engagement for participating businesses, enabling them to adapt and grow in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.
With 73 completed outputs, the Accelerate Ashington programme leaves behind a strong legacy of digital transformation, creativity, and enterprise support. The team is proud to have empowered local businesses to embrace change, innovate, and build sustainable growth strategies.
To learn more about business support in Northumberland, please contact business@businessnorthumberland.co.uk
This project is part-funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.