Could Manchester be the next startup capital of Europe?

Despite the fact that Manchester is only a fraction of the size of London, there has always been an exciting element to it. There is so much going on in the Northern powerhouse that makes tech industry leaders sit up and listen. Even though Brexit threatens to disturb the core of the UK startup scene, for those already established in the UK, there isn’t a panic just yet. Manchester is the home to 3 tech startups valued at $1billion or more – otherwise known as unicorns - and it’s also home to make other successful tech start ups and IT companies. It makes sense that Manchester is home to these tech start-ups considering it is the birthplace of the first modern computer. Following are just a few of the reasons Manchester is set to become the next startup capital of Europe.

Community

As a whole, Manchester has an overwhelming sense of community. It is home to many groups, societies organisations and learning institutions dedicated to championing the tech startup scene. There are groups such as Northcoders, for learning how to code. Groups to teach women who love to code how to code such as Manchester Girl Geeks and even schools dedicated to digital disruption, like Hyper Island. The city is also home to three universities, each with strong connections to the tech scene. Spaces like MadLab allow those with similar types who just want to meet up. Alongside this, the city’s numerous co-working space provide ample networking and socialising opportunities.

Investment

Manchester is home to an agile agency providing training, investment and support to companies in the region called The Growth Hub. It’s also the home of Tech City UK, which offers support and funding opportunities for start-ups. Anyone looking for support and investment opportunities, Manchester is the ideal place to find what you are looking for.

Legacy

The most definite way that you can ensure the success of your business is to surround yourself with the people who have succeeded before you. There is definitely not a shortage of IT companies in Manchester, without mentioning all of the internet startups that have found major success in the city. For example, businesses such as AO.com, BooHoo, Money Supermarket and the Coop Group. There are a multiplying number of companies founded in the Manchester region, which just goes to show you don’t need big cities such a London to find success.

It may be that Manchester is the UK’s second city but it is definitely on its way to becoming the number one choice for tech companies looking to put down roots. In addition to this, there is good news for job hunters, with the latest startup jobs, the cost of living in Manchester is much lower. Meaning, you can spend less on rent and more on enjoying the city – therefore, Manchester is the place to be!

Rebecca Harper is a freelance tech writer and trend spotter based in London. She regularly writes about trends in business, technology and law. You can follow her on Twitter.