Free support to start & grow your business in the North East
The Business & Intellectual Property Centre (BIPC) North East is the go-to destination for those who wish to start, develop, or grow their business.
We support local businesses located across the width and breadth of the North East region by providing an array of free information resources that are free, practical, and accessible via online or within your local library.
Part of the British Library’s national network of Business & IP Centres, we are now based across eight main libraries in the North East:
- Newcastle City Library: BIPC North East’s regional Centre
- BIPC Local at Berwick Library: Northumberland
- BIPC Local at Hexham Library: Northumberland
- BIPC Local at Morpeth Library: Northumberland
- BIPC Local at North Shields Customer First Centre: North Tyneside
- BIPC Local at Local History Library @Sunderland Elephant Tea Rooms: Sunderland City
- BIPC Local at The Word Library: South Tyneside
We also have a presence within Gateshead Libraries, currently located in Blaydon Library, where BIPC resources can be accessed.
We are here to support and guide you on your business journey.
Visit us in your nearest library or drop us a line to find out more: bipcnortheast@newcastle.gov.uk
How can we help support your business?
Our team of helpful and insightful IP specialists will help you unlock the power & value of intellectual property. Whether you are designing your latest invention or wish to protect your brand, our team are here to guide you as well as provide appropriate recommendations on the different types of protection available including design, trademarks, copyright, and patents.
The BIPC North East team delivers IP surgeries which are held twice weekly via appointment to help businesses understand further the different types of IP protection available.
We have a friendly and knowledgeable team of 30 + Local experts who derive from a wide variety of business sectors. Many of our experts come from small businesses themselves and offer free one-to-one appointments where you can receive advice on a wide range of topics including finance and funding, marketing and communication, HR and much more. In addition, Newcastle-based businesses can now apply to receive up to 12 hours of fully funded Expert support through our Citylife Business Support programme.
Book an appointment today and explore free to access market research and business information, essential to your own business journey. Use insightful databases including COBRA, GRANTfinder and Mintel to access company stats, delve into the latest market trends and consumer behaviours, find out about the latest funding opportunities, and scope out your competition!
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