New “ground-breaking hub” for gaming and technology for Media City

A new “ground-breaking hub” focusing on developing virtual careers is set to be built at Media City.

The “people-centred hub” is one of ten projects to be awarded funding through the ‘Innovation Accelerator pilot programme’.

The Immersive Technologies Innovation Hub aims to “support businesses to design, develop and test…to drive productivity and economic growth in both physical and virtual worlds”.

The project’s developers hope to enable new research and development in entertainment technologies at Media City such as film, TV, gaming, esports, art, music, retail, education, health and manufacturing.

Salford City Council announced the project on Monday (20 March) with support from ‘HOST’ at Media City, Salford University, Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett and support from several “strategic partners” across Salford.

HOST, ‘Home of Skills and Technology’, is a hub based in Media City, “dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive tech community”.

The council say they are “seizing opportunities arising from the new digital era of the metaverse” and hope this new innovation will “attract new investment, business and talent”.

Salford City Mayor Paul Dennett and Chair of ‘HOST’ said: “Through this project, Salford will continue to nurture and join the dots for creative individuals…and communities.

“Our vision is for everyone to benefit, while we foster a culture of innovation and sustainable growth.”

Media City’s Managing Director said; “The [Hub] will enhance Media City’s inclusive environment for business innovation and…positively impact the lives and productivity of communities across Greater Manchester”.

Another announcement to be proud of with news of Innovation Accelerator pilot programme funding. This will support new innovation and enhance our presence on the global map as a centre for innovation. Great news for the city, @MediaCityUK and @SalfordUnihttps://t.co/cvVrqoStOg pic.twitter.com/Rp1IWePULY

— SalfordMayor (@salford_mayor) March 20, 2023

The council say the project builds on follow on from Media City’s decade-long successes as a “national centre for digital and creative industries from broadcasting to media content to gaming and esports”

Chair of the University of Salford’s Metaverse Special Interest Group, Prof Andy Miah said; “We are…delighted to be a part of this ground-breaking new Hub.

“[The Hub] will make such an important contribution towards Salford’s journey into exploring these immersive new technologies as we aim to realise the full potential and limitless possibilities of this new environment”.

The council say any companies or “talented individuals” wanting to take part in or contribute to the project should contact Anthony Hatton via email at innovation@mediacityuk.co.uk.