A ground-breaking new initiative has launched in Manchester to support unemployed STEM graduates to break into high-growth digital and tech careers.
Delivered by Manchester Digital in partnership with Pathways CIC and commissioned by Manchester City Council, the Grad Recharge programme is fully-funded by the UK Government as part of its Economic Activity Trailblazer initiative.
The 16-week programme will specifically support STEM graduates in Manchester who are facing multiple barriers to employment, which could include mental health challenges, limited confidence, lack of professional networks and systemic inequality.
Currently, youth and graduate unemployment is rising across Manchester, with each unemployed young person estimated to cost the economy £48,211 (Source: Manchester City Council). STEM graduates in particular are often caught in a difficult middle ground, overqualified for entry-level roles but underprepared for the fast-moving, network-driven nature of digital employment. Post-COVID, mental health challenges have deepened and mainstream employability services continue to fall short in preparing people for sector-specific demands.
During Manchester Digital’s annual Skills Festival this year over 2000 students were surveyed, with 60% of students reporting having experienced a negative impact on their mental health and confidence, now or in the past.
At the same time, 29% of Greater Manchester tech employers face acute digital skills gaps, most evident in early career roles (Manchester Digital Sector Insights Report 2025). Grad Recharge is designed to close that gap by turning underused graduate talent into work-ready hires.
Katie Gallagher OBE, Managing Director at Manchester Digital, said: “We’re still seeing the impact of the pandemic and the wider economic climate on graduates and those in the early stages of their careers. Many missed out on building the skills, experience and networks that are often crucial for progressing in tech. At the same time, the industry is moving fast and the expectations on new talent can be high.
“This programme is about getting participants work-ready, giving them a real chance to build their skills, grow their confidence and start developing the network they need to access future opportunities.”
Councillor John Hacking, Executive Member for Skills, Employment and Leisure at Manchester City Council, said: “Manchester City Council is excited to be partnering with Manchester Digital to deliver an innovative programme as part of the Economic Activity Trailblazer initiative which will provide opportunities for our residents. We are looking forward to seeing the impact the programme will have on young graduates across the City and how this learning can inform and shape the national Government Trailblazer programme.”
Yvonne Clarke MBE, Managing Director at Pathways CIC, said: “At Pathways, we understand how mental health, confidence, and systemic barriers can hold brilliant people back. Grad Recharge brings a fresh approach, combining wellbeing support with skills and opportunities that directly align with the needs of today’s digital employers. We are proud to be working in partnership with Manchester Digital to co-deliver a programme that puts people first, enabling talented STEM graduates to move forward with confidence, and purpose.”
Grad Recharge offers a structured, trauma-informed and person-centred programme, combining targeted mental health support, confidence coaching, technical masterclasses and real-world employer engagement. Participants will also access employer-led workshops, career coaching and digital skills training in areas such as GenAI, data analytics, inclusive design thinking and content creation.
Each graduate will receive tailored support over 16 weeks through a multidisciplinary model that bridges the gap between education and employment while establishing the anchors for positive long term mental health and wellbeing.
The programme is now live and accepting applications for its first cohort starting in September, with further cohorts planned throughout 2025 and early 2026.
How to get involved
Employers: If your business wants to support the next generation of digital talent by offering mentoring, insight days or short placements, we want to hear from you. Help us remove barriers and build a more inclusive sector. Contact Head of Programmes, Emma Grant at emma@manchesterdigital.com for more details.
Graduates: If you're a STEM graduate based in Manchester who is out-of-work and feeling stuck, anxious or uncertain about what comes next – Grad Recharge could be for you. Visit Grad Recharge to check eligibility and apply.
