The IT industry plays a crucial role in the modern era. In Leeds, this sector also holds strategic importance for the city and regional economy. After all, IT is not only about innovation and technological advancement, but also about creating new jobs and attracting investment to the region. IT companies in Leeds generate significant tax revenues and contribute to the growth of related sectors such as education, finance, and the creative industries. Today, we will explore the key features of our city’s IT segment. Read more on leeds-future.com.
Leeds as a Leading Centre for Information Technology
In the 21st century, Leeds has been actively shaping a unique IT sector distinguished by its specific features and regional advantages. Today, the city is home to over 200 IT companies, creating approximately 7,000 jobs for highly skilled professionals across various IT fields — from software development to cybersecurity and data analytics. Many of these companies operate on an international scale.
The IT sector in Leeds also invests over £50 million in infrastructure development, including high-speed broadband and next-generation communication technologies such as 5G and cloud solutions.
It is worth noting that the IT market in Leeds has its own unique characteristics. For example, the city maintains strong partnerships with universities, including the University of Leeds and Leeds Beckett University, to train specialists in IT, computer science, and digital design. Each year, more than 12,000 students and professionals enhance their qualifications through joint programmes. Leeds is also a growing hub for start-ups, with an ecosystem that encourages projects in artificial intelligence, blockchain, big data, and the Internet of Things (IoT).
Our city is also recognised as one of the UK’s game development centres, thanks to studios such as Rockstar Leeds and Team17, which create jobs and strengthen the city’s high-tech reputation.
Leading IT Companies Operating in Leeds
Leeds is home to several well-known IT companies that play a significant role in the region’s tech development. Among the most notable are:
- Rockstar Leeds — one of the most successful video game studios, renowned for developing portable editions of the Grand Theft Auto series and global gaming hits.
- Team17 — a legendary British game developer best known for the Worms series and a wide range of indie projects.
- Double Eleven — an international studio collaborating with industry giants such as Bethesda and Paradox Interactive.
- Callcredit Information Group (TransUnion UK) — a leading analytics company specialising in fintech solutions, data platforms, and information security.
- BJSS — a major IT consultancy and engineering firm focusing on software solutions for businesses and the public sector.
- Sky Betting & Gaming — a leading online gambling and sports betting platform with a strong IT division in Leeds.
The city also hosts numerous start-ups and tech companies, including EPAM Systems, Civica, William Hill, and EMIS Group.
The Importance of IT Education
As you can see, education is essential to the IT sector in Leeds. This is why the city is home to several leading educational institutions that train future IT professionals. The most notable include:
- University of Leeds — one of the UK’s largest and most prestigious universities, offering degrees in computer science, digital technologies, artificial intelligence, software engineering, and IT-focused master’s programmes.
- Leeds Beckett University — provides undergraduate and postgraduate courses in computing, interactive media, web development, cybersecurity, and digital design.
- Leeds Trinity University — focuses on practical IT training, including programming, data analytics, and IT support.
- Leeds City College — offers professional IT education, certificates, and diplomas, including courses in computer technology, networking, cybersecurity, and game development.
- Code Academy Leeds, Northcoders, QA Training — private training centres delivering short-term intensive programmes, bootcamps, and online courses.
All these institutions work closely with IT companies that later employ their graduates.
Overall, IT companies in Leeds significantly contribute to regional economic growth, generating tax revenues, attracting investment, and supporting the development of other sectors such as education, creative industries, finance, and government services. The IT sector accounts for over 10% of the region’s GDP, making it one of the largest employers and a key source of innovation.
Today, Leeds stands out as one of the leading IT hubs in Northern England, thanks to the rapid development of its technology sector. We hope this article has been informative and that you have learned more about our city.
