Our Impact
NewcastleGateshead Initiative
NewcastleGateshead Initiative was created 25 years ago and, in that time, has made a significant impact working on the economic and social ambitions of Newcastle, Gateshead and the wider region.
We have been consistently recognised nationally and regionally as a best practice organisation offering award-winning convention bureau services, an award-winning inward investment service, and operating as a leading destination management organisation (first in the UK to be awarded Local Visitor Economy Partnership status). Our Chief Executive and Chief Operating Officer have both been awarded New Year Honours for their valued contribution to region’s economy and UK’s visitor economy.
Our Chief Executive, Dr Sarah Green OBE, is also part of the Department for Culture, Media and Sport’s Visitor Economy Advisory Council alongside, fellow North East England representative, Dame Irene Hays of Hays Travel, as well as leading figures from British Airways, VisitBritain, the Royal Shakespeare Company, Trainline, and other key players in the tourism industry, to secure growth in the UK’s world-class visitor economy.
Delivering inclusive growth
In 2023/24:
- The visitor economy in Newcastle and Gateshead supported more than 21,000 jobs right across the supply chain.
- We welcomed 17million visitors who brought £2.1 billion into NewcastleGateshead’s economy.
- 5.8million ‘staying’ visitors to NewcastleGateshead, contributing £800m in economic impact.
- Our NewcastleGateshead Convention Bureau confirmed 144 conferences and events for the city with an estimated value of £1 million. These events will take place over the next 4 years.
- In 2023 alone our Convention Bureau supported 223 events which filled more than 4000 bednights across Newcastle and Gateshead.
- In 2023, the regional visitor economy was worth £6.1 billion up 14% on 2022 which is an increase of 5% on 2022. Jobs grew by 8% from 58, 448 to 63,064.
- £1.1 billion in investment leads generated through delegations (MIPIM and UK REiiF)
- 1732 jobs created with 29 new companies opening in the city and a further 23 expanding existing operations
- To date we have attracted more than 350 new businesses to locate or expand in Newcastle, Gateshead and the wider region, creating 16,000 jobs.
- Promoted 700 businesses, hundreds of events and visitor inspiration to 1.7million potential visitors.
- Work with 160 private sector partners to make a positive social impact.
