A business news site run by a former regional press journalist is set to go national after securing a six-figure investment.
BDaily was set up in the North East of England 20 years ago before being acquired in 2024 by multi-platform publisher North East Times (NET).
Led by former Northern Echo business editor Steven Hugill, BDaily currently publishes a business news website covering the North-East, Yorkshire and London, but is now set to expand nationally.
It follows a six-figure investment from Maven Capital Partners through the Finance Durham Fund, established by Durham County Council and overseen by Business Durham.
Pictured, from left: John Duns, NET business development director, Cllr Joe Quinn, Durham County Council cabinet member, Rebecca Minchella, investment manager at Maven Capital Partners, and Pete Mallon, NET managing and creative director.
The business is also set to expand its workforce and move to new premises in Aykley Heads, as part of the Durham Innovation District.
Pete Mallon, NET managing and creative director, said: “We’re delighted to have secured this investment, which will allow us to deliver a step-change in Bdaily coverage across the UK.
“This backing will supercharge what we do best – high-quality and engaging business journalism, distinctive design and photography and impactful executive-level events – and take it to more regions, more audiences and more partners.
“With Maven’s backing, we’re well placed to accelerate our growth and build Bdaily into a truly national publishing brand.”
John Duns, NET business development director, added: “For some years now, the level of regional business-to-business news, information and opinion has been in decline, and this has made it harder for companies and organisations to get messages out to chosen markets.
“This investment will allow Bdaily to help these businesses in a meaningful way, while also supporting economic growth.”
Rebecca Minchella, Maven Capital Partners investment manager, said: “Bdaily offers a clear differentiator of high-quality business-to-business journalism delivered by its rapidly expanding digital presence.
“The opportunity for it is huge and, coupled with the expertise developed from the success of NET, the team is well placed to expand Bdaily nationally while continuing to protect the editorial quality that underpins the strength of the brand.”
Councillor Joe Quinn, Durham County Council’s cabinet member for planning, investment and assets, added: “This investment is a clear signal of Durham’s growing influence as a driver of regional economic leadership.
“Bdaily’s expansion demonstrates the confidence that innovative, high-growth companies have in the support, infrastructure and opportunities available here.”