March sees launch of Social Tech North East

There was a great turnout and a real buzz at the launch of Social Tech North East earlier this month at Proto, the region's emerging technology centre.

Social Tech North East aims to create new links between social leaders and tech specialists in order to help charities and social enterprises do more with digital and to inspire tech powered social innovation. Attendees at the launch event were treated to tours of Proto by Digital Innovation Manager, Alex Cook, as well as talks from VR expert Dave Black and from Mark Shilcock who spearheads the development of the OurGateshead platform. With free pizzas and great beers from local supplier Wylam brewery, the networking  was still going strong at 10pm as this latest North East meetup got off to flying start.

One of the organisers, Consult and Design's Director, David Van der Velde commented 'there are many great examples of new technology being used for social impact, but charities can be a bit behind the curve when it comes to using digital to achieve their mission. The starting point for us in working with VONNE to provide the Social Tech meetups is to bridge the gap between digital and not for profit organisations so people can connect across sectors, build trust and share knowledge.'

Social Tech North East is organised by digital specialists Consult and Design and the Voluntary Organisations Network for the North East (VONNE).

The monthly events are free and run from 6-8:30 with time for networking. The next event will be held at TUSpark Newcastle on 4th April.

Follow @VONNENews for all the latest Social Tech NE updates