A pioneering data connectivity firm is strengthening its links with the North East community after pledging a four-figure sum to two life-changing regional charities.

Tyneside-based Fuse Media is seeking to switch up its fundraising plans after raising £500 apiece for the Eagles Community Foundation and the Great North Children’s Hospital.

And after bagging a podium place at this year’s NE1 Dragon Boat Race on the River Tyne, the Newcastle-based firm is setting its sights on the next big challenge.

“As a business we sponsor Newcastle Eagles basketball and the Eagles Community Foundation provides young people across the North East with a range of incredible opportunities through sport,” explains Fuse Media founder and director Jamie Mabelson.

“The work that Sam Blake and her team do on a daily basis is amazing and we were lucky enough to help them out this year — and have fun doing it!”

Fuse Media is embedded in the local community and continues to seek out exciting new opportunities to raise funds for worthy causes.

“We’ve been involved with the Dragon Boat Race for the last three years and it’s a fantastic way to have fun as a team and raise money for some amazing organisations,” adds Jamie.

“In 2023 my colleagues Elliot [Leese, logistics manager] and Justin [Smith, associate director] joined a team and finished second. They loved it.

“Last year we entered as Fuse and finished third but this year we went one better and claimed silver. Next year we’re in it to win it!”

Fuse Media shot to fame providing data solutions for the cast and crew on big budget TV and film projects including Bridgerton, The Witcher and Sex Education.

Jamie and the team also provide savings solutions for empty commercial properties.

And this year has seen Fuse combine elements of both arms of the business by introducing high-definition screens to vacant shopfronts — creating free wi-fi hotspots and unique advertising opportunities in the same space.

“The business is growing fast but the fundraising initiatives allow us to remain anchored to our local community,” adds Jamie. “We work across the UK but we’re passionate about supporting the North East. We’re proud to be based here.

“The two organisations we supported at this year’s Dragon Boat Race are very close to our heart. The Great North Children’s Hospital was our primary charity on the day and they do amazing work for families across the region.”

For a small team, Fuse Media has big ambitions. Charity challenges afford Jamie and his colleagues the perfect opportunity to forge fresh partnerships and work alongside existing clients.

“We love taking part in team events,” adds Justin. “We’ve been involved in the last three Buccleuch Property Challenges — they’re described as the ultimate six-hour, non-stop team building adventure races!

“It’s a chance to work together outside of the office and — like the Dragon Boat Race — it’s a great way to spend a day meeting new people and exploring new opportunities.

“We know that raising money can have a positive impact on the local community and we love to do something different with our friends and clients.”

This year’s Fuse Media Dragon Boat was crewed by friends from Parker Knights, Cable Properties, HTA, B7, Robertson Homes, Mableson Hall and Bradley Hall.

And Jamie reveals: “We’re already planning next year’s bid for glory. In the meantime, we’re always looking at what we can do next.”