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Frequently Asked Questions.

Everything you need to know before you join. If your question isn't here, talk to the team.

What is Manchester Digital?

Manchester Digital is the independent, not-for-profit organisation backing Greater Manchester's tech sector. We've been part of the infrastructure that the region's digital economy runs on since 2001 - connecting businesses, talent and opportunity and reinvesting everything we generate back into the sector.

Who owns and governs Manchester Digital?

We are member-owned and governed by an elected Board drawn from across the membership. Board members are voted in at our Annual General Meeting, where members can ask questions and hold us to account. We are not-for-profit, independent and accountable to no one but the sector.

Where is Manchester Digital based?

We're based in Greater Manchester and work across the wider North and UK. Most of our events take place in Manchester, but our membership includes organisations operating nationally and internationally.


Why does Manchester Digital matter to the region?

Because no single business can build the infrastructure the sector needs on its own. Manchester Digital exists so that doesn't have to happen - we create the shared foundations that help every business in the ecosystem grow stronger.

Who can join Manchester Digital?

Any digital or tech business, freelancer, public sector organisation with a digital team, education provider or organisation that supports the sector. If you're not sure whether you qualify, talk to the team and we'll point you in the right direction.

Does membership cover my whole organisation or just me?

Membership applies to your whole organisation, not individuals. Everyone in your business can access the benefits.


How do I get the most out of membership?

Tell us what you need. The businesses that get the most from Manchester Digital are the ones that share their priorities with us - whether that's hiring, visibility, new business or market insight. Start with a conversation and we'll show you exactly what's available for your business.

What's the return on investment?

For most members, one hire, one partnership or one new client covers the annual cost of membership. Everything else - the connections, the visibility, the influence, the programmes - is upside.

How do I join?

Choose the tier that matches your size on the Join page and complete the application. If you're not sure which tier is right, get in touch and we'll help you find the right fit before you commit.


Can I get involved even if my company isn't a member?

Yes. Non-members can attend selected public events, access open programmes and use our jobs board and news page. Signing up for our newsletter is a good place to start.

What kind of events does Manchester Digital run?

We run flagship sector conferences in Ecommerce, Fintech and AI & Emerging Tech, leadership dinners and roundtables, the Manchester Digital Festival, our annual member conference MD Live, and a range of targeted networking and insight events throughout the year.

What apprenticeship programmes does Manchester Digital offer?

We offer a Level 4 Software Developer apprenticeship with AI integrated throughout the programme. Find out more on our People & Capability page.


How does Manchester Digital support startups and scaleups?

Through the Startup Activator programme, peer networks, targeted events and access to the wider ecosystem. We reduce friction for early-stage businesses - connecting them to talent, partners, visibility and the support that actually moves things forward.

How does Manchester Digital support diversity, equity and inclusion?

DEI is central to our work. Digital Her supports women into tech and through it - from school outreach to mentoring for women already in the sector. Grad Recharge creates routes in for underrepresented graduates. And our apprenticeship programme is designed to build diverse pipelines.


Got any additional questions not answered on this page?

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