Wired Sussex, a membership-based support group for new media firms, is undergoing a major overhaul to meet the demands of its growing customer base.

The Brighton-based development agency is revamping its web site, which has been the main port of call for its members since the group's launch in 1997.

A new service called Tendertap will give members access to 200 public sector tenders throughout Europe every week - filtered to suit their business.

Other services going online include a programme to help businesses reduce their overheads and another which will help them predict future trends in the industry.

Members will also be given access to an extensive library of downloadable material related to employment law, accounting and human resources.

Wired's decision to upgrade their facilities comes as industry experts predict a significant shift in the new and digital media sector during the next 12 months.

According to financial services group Deloitte, 2005 will be characterised by "growing consumer demand for more content, more media and more choice".

Nick Underhill, director of Wired, said: "Deloitte's research suggests the industry is changing as digital media spreads to more areas of contemporary life and business.

"Our new membership scheme and rebrand reflect these changes, as we continue to support the expanding number of digital media companies taking root in Sussex.

"Crystal ball gazing is key in this fast moving industry as it enables companies to retain their cutting-edge and to address any strategic changes before they occur."

Wired, based in Castle Square, is a Government-sponsored company which has helped turn Sussex into one of the largest digital media clusters in Europe.

Earlier this year it launched the Brighton E-Learning Alliance (BeLA) to promote the city as the European hub for companies producing education software.

The organisation is also heading the Women in Media initiative to tackle the skills shortage by increasing the number of women in the new media workforce.

Roger Horlock, director of Brighton-based internet company Metranet, backed the changes.

He said: "Sussex is a hotbed for digital media activity and Wired Sussex has been an integral part of our growth. We'll definitely be making use of the new membership benefits."

More people work in new media in the South-East than anywhere else in the UK after London and the sector is growing faster than any other in the region.

According to the South-East England Development Agency the largest new media cluster is centred in Brighton and Hove, with others throughout East and West Sussex.

Wednesday May 11, 2005