John Hays, managing director of the firm, which is headquartered in the city, said backing the bid was important to the company, which employs more than 1,000 people.
He told TTG: “I’m proud to be from Sunderland and I’m really proud to employ so many people in the city.
“Sunderland would benefit hugely if it were to became City of Culture for 2021 – in terms of confidence and investment – and it would spread the word about our wonderful city across the world.”