Made here. Making an impact everywhere.
What started as an inspirational idea in 2013 has been quietly growing into something remarkable. For the past six years, Made in Stoke has been proving what happens when a community refuses to forget its roots.
The seed for Made in Stoke was first planted by former local MP Sir Tristram Hunt, who recognised the untapped power of the city's global diaspora.
Driven by local advocates, philanthropists and partners, it started with a simple belief:
- Stoke-on-Trent makes brilliant people.
- Their stories matter.
- They can make and influence change for good.
Today, Made in Stoke brings those people together.
Across business, culture, sport, science, education and the creative industries, our network celebrates the talent, ambition and spirit that connects people to this city - wherever life has taken them.
And the story is travelling.
Made in Stoke is helping put Stoke-on-Trent on the national map and Government agendas, creating connections between the city and its wider community, opening doors to new partnerships and showing what this place can produce when its people come together. Significantly we are helping change perceptions and place Stoke-on-Trent at the centre of conversations about civic leadership and community-led change.
In fact Made in Stoke is now recognised by the Government as an innovative model of place-based philanthropy and collaboration.
And we’re helping shape and change the broader narrative. For too long outsiders looking in have given Stoke-on-Trent a bad press. We are hoping to change that by publicising the real truth and stories about the positive difference and phenomenal achievements Stoke people are making, often against the odds - with true grit and determination - and how business and industry is thriving despite heavy taxation and cutbacks, influencing creativity and innovation on a global scale. Stoke people don’t take anything lying down and will always make the best of a bad situation.
Because being Made in Stoke isn't only about where you come from.
It's about what you carry with you.
The resilience.The creativity.The graft.The pride.
We are always looking for brilliant people who carry the spirit of the Potteries with them.
No matter how far you've wandered, there's always a place for you at the table.
Welcome to Made in Stoke.
Welcome home.
Made to measure.
Investing in people, place and possibility
Already 750+ members’ strong and growing!
We are building a sustainable engaged diaspora network that contributes to the well-being and development of the city, by creating a landing pad where they willingly give their time, talent, and treasure.
The Made in Stoke team operate as connectors, catalysts, and convenors - unlocking opportunities, investment, and action that strengthen communities and improve lives.
We are not limited to one sector or cause. We are led by our members.
Our measures of success:
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01
Creating economic development.
Leveraged over £5 million of philanthropy to the city. Supporting projects including early years education, social care, health and well-being and the creative industries.
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02
Cultivating ambassadors and champions.
Established think tank groups of experts to help create systemic change in the areas of mental health, financial literacy and poverty.
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03
Raising aspiration and ambition.
Connected schools and colleges across Staffordshire with inspirational speakers from its diaspora network - from fighter pilots to CEOs - who share their career journeys free of charge.
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04
Building capacity in communities.
Grew the Let’s Celebrate Fund from an initial £20,000 donation to £65,000 through matched funding - distributed to 26 local organisations - fostering community togetherness and local pride.
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05
Supporting heritage and culture.
Secured investment for life changing opportunities - sending young people to volunteer at an organic farm in Canada, to Pittsburgh, a festival in Glastonbury and artist retreat in Devon
‘What makes Made in Stoke different is its ability to connect influence with need and turn goodwill into action.’
How you can get involved.
Time.
Mentor or volunteer – sign up to our Speakers in Schools programme, help to mentor Stokies of tomorrow.
Speakers in Schools