Dynamo helps grow the North East’s tech economy by bringing the community together through events, leadership forums and initiatives. Its work includes tackling key challenges such as digital exclusion, talent shortages, and awareness of the tech sector, while focusing on three core pillars: Member Voices and Impact, Brand Exposure and Connections, and Tech Talent and Careers.
Chair of the Advisory Board, James Bunting, reflects on what Dynamo is delivering, what he has learnt in the role, and why now is the time for more companies and new board members to step forward.
-
Why did you decide to take on the role of Chair of the Dynamo Advisory Board?
Giving back to the region has always been important to me throughout my career. I have long believed that progress happens when people come together with a shared purpose, and I care deeply about the future of the North East tech ecosystem.
When the opportunity to Chair Dynamo’s Advisory Board came up, it felt like a natural way to contribute meaningfully. This is a voluntary role, but I see it as an opportunity to help strengthen the region I believe in.
I want the North East to be the best place in the UK to build and grow technology departments and businesses, and supporting Dynamo is one way to help make that happen. I do not see this as leading from the front, but as helping to bring the right people together and create space for others to thrive.
-
What has been the most enjoyable or surprising part?
The most enjoyable part has been working closely with the Dynamo team. They operate with limited resources, yet their passion, commitment, and energy are remarkable. It is clear they care deeply about the community they serve, and it is inspiring to support them. Their dedication makes you proud to be part of something bigger than any one organisation.
What has surprised me most is how often I speak to tech departments and companies that say they want to give back to the region but are not yet involved with Dynamo.
Dynamo is a not-for-profit community interest company. Any investment, whether financial or through time and expertise, directly supports the regional tech ecosystem. As Chair, one of our priorities on the Advisory Board is to reach those organisations, help them understand Dynamo’s role, and encourage them to get involved in meaningful ways.
The appetite to support the region is already there. Sometimes people just need an invitation and a place to belong.
-
What moment made you think, “this is making a real difference”?
Dynamo delivers a wide range of impactful initiatives, from the Dynamites Awards to leadership forums.
One moment that stands out during my time as Chair so far is the launch of the Dynamo North East Tech Charity Dinner. We raised over £40,000 in our first year. Seeing the generosity of our region’s tech community come together to tackle digital exclusion is genuinely powerful. It reminds you what this region is capable of when we pull in the same direction.
This is impact at grassroots level. It supports digital inclusion and helps build a tech-powered economy that benefits everyone. As an Advisory Board, one of our key contributions was helping to evaluate the fundraising approach, review lessons from the first year, and recommend ways to build and improve the initiative for the future. Those insights are now being implemented in this year’s event.
I am proud to continue to support this initiative by encouraging tech sector leaders across the region to attend and raise awareness of digital exclusion. Only by coming together can we create meaningful change, and this event is a clear example of that in action.
More broadly, Dynamo has no commercial interests. It exists purely to improve and grow the region’s tech economy. Everyone involved is doing so for the right reasons, and that authenticity is what makes the impact real.
-
Why would you recommend that companies get involved and become a Dynamo member?
Alongside my role as Chair, I am also the CEO of a technology consultancy that has been a Dynamo member for many years. We originally joined to give back to the community and support the regional tech sector. A strong tech sector is good for our business and people.
However, what has surprised me is that by attending Dynamo events and engaging in the community, we have built relationships that have led to real business opportunities. One of our largest regional contracts to date came from a connection made at a Dynamo event. That is a positive by-product of doing the right thing, not the main goal.
The message is simple. Join for the right reasons to contribute and support the ecosystem. By actively engaging, you naturally grow your network, visibility, and opportunities. Giving first is what unlocks the greatest value.
-
What advice would you give to individuals considering applying to join the Advisory Board?
I think any tech leader, founder, CTO or community builder who is passionate about making a difference in our region should be seriously considering this opportunity. I want the selection process to be as difficult as possible for myself and the team. Read the brief carefully and understand what the role involves. This is not just a title. It is about driving real impact and contributing to Dynamo’s mission. You need to be genuinely committed to supporting the growth of the North East tech sector and prepared to give up about one day per month to do so.
It is a competitive process because many people in our region want to give back. That is something the North East is rightly proud of. If you are unsuccessful, do not be discouraged. There are many ways to support Dynamo’s work as a member, volunteer, or advocate. Every contribution matters, no matter the size.
Most importantly, only apply if your motivation is genuine. A real desire to contribute and make a difference is what matters most. Authenticity is key.
