An overview of how UK Government and EU initiatives have supported business startup activity in Newcastle and the North East since the 1980s alongside private sector projects driven by the grassroots tech/digital/creative community, including my own personal endeavours. (This presentation was first delivered to Geography students at Newcastle University on 21st November 2016 as part of a 3rd year module on 'Local and Regional Development'). Follow me on Twitter @lordlancaster and tell me what you think.