Animation in Manchester

Manchester is home to one of Europe’s largest creative, digital and tech clusters and has been leading the way in animation for more than 40 years.

Some of the world’s most highly acclaimed talent have grown within Manchester working for companies such as Mackinnon & Saunders, TT Games and Cloud Imperium. Their work is truly international and they produce content for the likes of Disney, Nickleodeon, Warner Brothers, 20th Century Fox, Lego, the BBC and Sony.

When Mark Hall and Brian Cosgrove set up their, their company, there was very, very little animation of any type done in the Manchester or even a Northwest region. So, them doing what they did, became this nucleus for this, this whole new industry to evolve within the Northwest

— Peter Saunders, Mackinnon and Saunders

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Greater Manchester Creative Industries Mixer

11, Feb 2026

This event series is co hosted by GMCA Culture & Creative Industries and the BHG Create Growth programme, and is designed to bring together freelancers, creatives, and independent businesses from across all 10 subsectors in the region. Expect: Inspiring guest speakers Local entertainment Food and refreshments Key sector updates Please RSVP 0ver 18's only ----------------- Event Agenda TBA

MAD//North

25, Feb 2026

MAD//Fest is heading back up north! Launched in 2025, it's going bigger in 2026, taking over multiple venues to create a vibrant, funky festival for 4,000+ of the most influential brands, agencies, publishers, content creators + tech platforms. Expect ideas from iconic industry leaders. Expect insight on how the world's top brands + disruptors are investing + future-proofing. Expect innovation from top tech platforms, agencies + start-ups. If you're looking for a boring trade show, look elsewhere. If you're looking to meet the marketing tribes from the north + beyond + enjoy a unique festival packed with content, community + connections, you can start looking forward to MAD//North!