The North East has been recognised as a leader in digital transformation after winning the Place-Based Impact Award at the Future Networks Awards 2025.
This accolade celebrates the impact of the North East’s 5G Innovation Regions (5GIR) programme, which has reshaped the region’s digital landscape and strengthened its position as a hub for advanced wireless innovation.
The 5GIR programme, led by Sunderland City Council in collaboration with the North East Combined Authority (NECA), has secured £3.7 million in funding from the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) to accelerate the adoption of advanced wireless infrastructure and its use cases. The programme has delivered four pioneering projects across transport, logistics, creative industries and agritech, driving economic growth, improving efficiency and attracting inward investment to the North East.
The Future Networks Awards took place as part of the Connected Reflections Live event in London, a showcase celebrating new innovations, ecosystems, and insights gained through projects driving the future of connectivity.
Barney Smith, Founder and CEO of Perform Green, said: “Winning this award is a testament to the dedication of all the partners involved in the 5GIR programme. This award reinforces the power of collaboration in delivering meaningful, place-based digital transformation.
“The 5GIR programme is not only driving technological innovation but is also ensuring that the benefits of advanced connectivity are felt across industries and communities. This is a fantastic milestone, and I am proud to see the North East leading the way."
Patrick Melia, chief executive of Sunderland City Council and digital lead for NECA, added: “We are incredibly proud that our groundbreaking 5GIR projects are putting the North East on the map as a trailblazer.
“With support from DSIT, we are leveraging next-generation connectivity to create new industry clusters, fuel economic growth and cement our region’s reputation as a leader in advanced digital solutions.”
The Future Networks Awards, hosted by UKTIN, celebrate excellence in next-generation connectivity and digital innovation, recognising projects that are reshaping industries and communities.
This win solidifies the North East’s commitment to pioneering digital transformation and ensuring that businesses, communities and public services thrive in a connected future.
The four main projects are demonstrating the vital role of advanced wireless technologies, including 5G, in reshaping regional industries:
Smart Port: At the Port of Tyne, an extended private 5G network – developed in partnership with BT and Ericsson – is enhancing safety, logistics and sustainability. AI-driven monitoring solutions and real-time environmental data are improving port efficiency and reinforcing the Port’s role as a digitally connected logistics hub.
Connected Intelligent Transport Systems (C-ITS): By deploying 5G-enabled real-time traffic management and connected vehicle trials, this project is streamlining transport links between major industrial locations such as Nissan and the Port of Tyne, strengthening the region’s position in next-generation mobility.
5G-Enabled Event Production/360º Live Broadcasting: Establishing Sunderland as a cultural and creative hub, this initiative has introduced immersive digital experiences – including the Sunderland EXPO Pavilion, one of the UK’s largest immersive screens – enhancing the region’s creative industries and tourism sector.
Agritech/Smart Farming: Partnering with Newcastle University, the programme is pioneering IoT-enabled smart farming solutions, improving sustainability and helping North East agriculture reduce its carbon footprint.
For more information on the North East’s 5GIR programme, visit www.sunderlandoursmartcity.com/5GIR