Citylife Business Support is Back for 2026 — and Applications Are Now Open
Great news for small businesses across the region — Citylife Business Support has returned for 2026, and we're delighted to be part of it once again.
A new round of fully-funded expert support is now available to SMEs in Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, North Tyneside and Northumberland, running from April through to December 2026. Applications opened on 1st May, and if you haven't already taken steps to register your interest, now is the time to act.
What does the funding cover?
Through the Citylife programme, eligible businesses receive up to 12 hours of free, one-to-one support from a Business & IP Centre North East (BIPC) Expert in Residence. At HiThrive, that means working directly with our team on the areas that matter most to you — whether that's financial performance, business planning, improving processes, or preparing for growth.
In addition to one-to-one support, you'll also have access to tailored workshops designed around the real challenges businesses are facing right now, and a free events programme covering topics like funding, innovation and resilience.
Who can apply?
This round is open to micro, small and medium-sized enterprises based in Newcastle, Gateshead, Sunderland, North Tyneside and Northumberland. To qualify as an SME, your business must have fewer than 250 employees, an annual turnover below £36m and a balance sheet total under £18m.
This round is currently prioritising businesses that haven't previously accessed Citylife funding. If you're a returning applicant, it may still be worth getting in touch — we can advise on where you stand and flag when access may open up to previous participants later in the year.
How to get started
The first step is a free, no-obligation 45-minute call with us to talk through your business, the areas you'd like support with, and whether Citylife is the right fit. Book your call here and we'll make sure you're ready to apply.
Full details about the programme, eligibility and FAQs are on our dedicated Citylife page.
Together, let's thrive with Citylife.
