A TECH support service has partnered with an accountants to help guide start ups and small businesses with dedicated financial support.

Sunderland Software City is partnering with Blu Sky Chartered Accountants to help support the growth of the technology sector in the North-East.

The move allows starts ups and small to medium size enterprises (SMEs) to focus on the development of technology, growth, and digital adoption through advice and support around better financial planning, access to funding and enhanced research and development.

The announcement coincides with Blu Sky’s new start up support packages, designed to provide tech and digital entrepreneurs support during the early stages of business.

Billy Webber, chief operating officer at Sunderland Software City, said: “Blu Sky has been supporting the region’s tech sector for numerous years and we’re excited to be working more closely with the team and are really excited about their new SME support offer and its track record on R&D tax claims for the tech sector.

"Blu Sky is known as a supportive pillar within the ecosystem and many entrepreneurs will have seen its team engage and support SMEs at local community events. We couldn’t think of a better financial partner that has more of a heart for the region’s tech and digital community."

Dave Gibson, co-founder of Blu Sky, said: “Sunderland Software City has always been at the forefront of representing the region’s tech sector, and we’re proud to be working with the SSC team through the new partnership.

"The partnership is a great fit with our business values and will provide us with an opportunity to support more entrepreneurs through dedicated startup and growth support.”