Middlesbrough has a well-established Cultural Partnership, which began in 2018 with founding member organisations including MIMA, Tees Valley Arts, Navigator North, Platform A Gallery, and The Auxiliary. The partnership was given funding from the HSHAZ to celebrate the hidden gems of Middlesbrough's high street. The partnership has developed a cultural and community programme, called Celebrating Hidden Middlesbrough, on behalf of Middlesbrough Council.
Visitors to the town, residents, students, families, businesses and artists have been invited to get involved as well as local special interest groups, community groups and the public. The Celebrating Hidden Middlesbrough advisory group, made up of residents, local businesses, stakeholders and creatives meets on a quarterly basis to influence and shape the programme.