Why it matters: The #BackTheBid campaign aims to demonstrate the strength of local backing behind the town's cultural vision, with engagement with young people and widespread public support forming a key part of the final submission due on 8th February 2026.
The big picture: Past UK City of Culture winners have seen over £1 billion of additional investment added to local economies, alongside increased jobs, tourism and local pride. Bradford, the current holder, has already delivered significant benefits, with over 11,000 pupils benefiting from education programmes and over 40,000 local people participating in cultural events within the first six months.
The details: DanceEast is leading the development of Ipswich's Expression of Interest for the 2029 competition. Signing up to the campaign will give people access to updates and engagement opportunities, as well as the chance to share ideas for both the bid itself and a long-term vision for culture in Ipswich.
The campaign has already secured strong backing from local businesses and organisations, with a growing number signing up as sponsors. Suffolk New College have joined Ipswich Town FC and Churchmanor Estates in publicly backing and sponsoring the bid.
What they're saying: Anthony Missen, chief executive and creative director of DanceEast, said: "We want this EOI to reflect culture in its widest sense and embrace all the diverse ways people come together to live, play and connect in Ipswich. But to do that, local people - and especially young people - need to be at the heart of shaping our plans. That's why we're asking as many people as possible to sign up and become part of #TeamIpswich2029 and show the world what Ipswich can achieve when we come together."
Lee Walker, chief executive of Ipswich Central, added: "Becoming the City of Culture would be transformational, for our economy, for our communities and for how the town is perceived across the UK and internationally. The #BackTheBid campaign is about demonstrating unity and pride, and I urge everyone who cares about Ipswich and the future of the town to get involved."
Ipswich Town chairman Mark Ashton said: "As a club, we are proud to be supporting Ipswich's bid to become the UK City of Culture. The bid is about celebrating everything that's good about our town and shining a light on the many successes and areas of life which bring us all together, while also using it as a way of showcasing the ambition we all hold for Ipswich. This is an opportunity for everyone to come together and drive further progress for our town and I urge everyone to sign up and play a part."
Alan Pease, principal and chief executive of Suffolk New College, said: "As an anchor institution in Ipswich, Suffolk New College is proud to support the City of Culture bid. We offer a strong creative curriculum and work with young people every day who will shape the future of this town.
Supporting this bid is about enhancing opportunities for our learners and helping to promote Ipswich as the desirable and diverse destination it is. Becoming a City of Culture would open doors for our students and strengthen Ipswich's reputation as a place where talent can thrive.
Cross-party support: Ipswich MP Jack Abbott said: "This is Ipswich's regeneration project. It's a once-in-a-generation opportunity to unlock investment, jobs and opportunities for the next generation, while also attracting visitors and boosting the local economy. I'm proud to support it and encourage people across Ipswich to back the bid and be part of something truly special."
North Ipswich and Central Suffolk MP Patrick Spencer also gave the bid his "full support," describing Ipswich as "one of England’s hidden gems," with "a rich history to be proud of," an "up-and-coming University,"a rich arts and culture scene," and "one of Britain’s greatest Football Clubs and a stadium that is fast becoming one of the country’s best entertainment venues."
For context: The UK City of Culture 2029 competition opened on Thursday, 30 October 2025. Expressions of Interest are due on 8th February 2026, with a longlist to be announced in February 2026. Each longlisted bid will receive £60,000 to help develop its full application. The shortlist will be announced in summer 2026, with the winner announced in winter 2026. For the first time, there will be a confirmed £10 million cash prize for the winner to help deliver the year-long programme.
Ipswich leaders believe the town will be the only bid from the East of England, with Norwich not expected to compete. The town must first reach a shortlist of eight from what could be dozens of applications across the UK.
The bottom line: As Ipswich Borough Council leader Neil MacDonald put it, "This City of Culture bid belongs to the people of Ipswich. It's about confidence in our town, belief in our creativity and ambition for our future. With just one month to go, the #BackTheBid campaign is a chance for everyone - residents, businesses and communities - to come together, show their pride and help us make the strongest possible case for Ipswich."
