Statement of Impact
Executive Summary
Caroline Hagan is a pivotal figure in the North East’s digital ecosystem, blending technical expertise with a commitment to social enterprise. With over 25 years of experience, she moves the needle on how SMEs and non-profits leverage technology.
Key Pillars of Impact
- Future-Proofing the Region
Recognising the paradigm shift in digital, Caroline is currently undertaking the “Artificial Intelligence: Foundations for Practice and Research” programme at Durham University with TechUp, positioning herself to guide regional SMEs through the AI transition. - Public Sector & Crisis Response
Employed within the non-profit sector to deliver digital support for the North East Combined Authority (NECA). Previously partnered with NGI during lockdowns to deliver emergency e-commerce training to hospitality SMEs. - Technical Excellence
A Google Women Techmaker and one of the first holders of the UK Google Mobile Sites certification, setting early regional standards for web performance and PWAs. - Social Impact
As Director of Get Kraken CIC and previously. a North East BIC peer mentor and Enterprise Nation mentor, she actively addresses digital exclusion and founder isolation. - Community & Talent
Founder of Kraken Networking and MarTech North East (featured in Bdaily), and a dedicated STEM Ambassador mentoring students in Durham.
Press releases
- Marketers unite to bridge the tech divide
- Key appointment fuels growth for Blueocto
- Blueocto web agency seeks growth after sealing five-figure investment
- Blueocto named among UK’s Top Ecommerce agencies
- Sunderland web design agency hits Shopify’s Top 20
- Women-led web design business is shortlisted for regional award
- Female-led tech company thrives during pandemic
- North East agency grows its team after a run of new clients
- Blueocto relocates to the North East BIC
Podcast features
Speaker Introductions
OPTION 1
The “Strategic Tech Leader”
(Business/Tech Crowds)
“Our next speaker is a digital strategist bridging the gap between complex technology and business growth for over 25 years. A former agency director and one of the first UK professionals to hold the Google Mobile Sites certification, she is now focused on AI readiness, currently studying AI Foundations with Durham University. She is also the founder of MarTech North East. Please welcome: Caroline Hagan.”
OPTION 2
The “Community & Social Impact Advocate”
(CIC/Non-Profit Events)
“Caroline Hagan believes technology must connect, not isolate. As Director of Get Kraken CIC and a STEM Ambassador, she works at the intersection of digital skills and social impact—tackling digital inclusion and loneliness in entrepreneurship. She also delivers digital support programmes on behalf of the North East Combined Authority. Please welcome, Caroline Hagan.”
OPTION 3
The “Podcast Intro”
(30-Second Hook)
“Today’s guest is Caroline Hagan, a North East-based digital consultant and social entrepreneur. With a background spanning early Google technical certifications to current studies in AI at Durham University, Caroline is a trusted voice in the regional ecosystem and the founder of Kraken Networking. Welcome to the show, Caroline!”