Our last issue covered the Chamber projects that support the town’s economy and businesses. In this issue, the focus is the local economy and business support services.
All the sources here predate the announcement of the General Election on July 4th and any new policies might affect the picture considerably, in due course.
Stronger, Greener, More Inclusive
A new 10-year Economic Strategy, “Driven by innovation, built on heritage,” has been published by the new Gloucestershire City Region Board (GCRB). This Board will continue and build on the work previously delivered by GFirstLEP.
The aim is a stronger, greener, more inclusive economy with major ambitions in cyber and other security technologies along with digital communications, precision engineering & manufacturing, agritech and green & nuclear energy.
The strategy acknowledges the vital role of bodies such as Chambers of Commerce, FSB and Growth Hubs in providing support for businesses.
GCRB will be advised by an independent Economic Growth Board and they are looking for local business leaders to take part. Apply to join the Board
A Terrific Resource
Your Chamber has a close relationship with the Cheltenham Growth Hub This has expanded its (mostly free) support for local businesses, including “Grown in Cheltenham” packages to help start-ups fast-track.
“The Region’s Biggest Opportunity in 300 Years”
That is how Gareth Edmundson, CEO of Cheltenham Borough Council, has described the Golden Valley Development. The aim is to become a globally recognised hub for cyber, AI and security technology. GCHQ is a key magnet.
He emphasised the local supply chain opportunities it will generate and which the Chamber will encourage at every opportunity.
We are planning a major event in July in to update us all and give you the opportunity to ask questions of people closely involved. Details will be available soon.
Guarded Optimism
Business West’s First Quarter Economic Survey reports a mixture of optimism and uncertainty among the 268 businesses surveyed. Download the results
Education for a High-Tech Future
Shortages of key skills remain a key concern for our economy. The University of Gloucestershire, Gloucestershire College and Hartpury University & Hartpury College have all taken big steps forward in their technology offerings.
Meanwhile, in other news……
New BID and Visit Cheltenham App. This will promote local businesses, events and attractions to visitors and residents.
All Change for Cheltenham Zero and Vision 21. The Borough Council has taken over the Zero project from Vision 21. The latter’s other projects will however continue.
Cheltenham Tops Employee Wellbeing League Table. In a report ranking 86 towns across the UK from information service Business Financed.
Getting the Word Out
Watch out for future newsletters covering news, networking and events. For lots of networking and training opportunities see our event calendar>
Don’t forget Members can upload their own news, white papers or events via their log-in Dashboard. For help or more information contact info@cheltenhamchamber.org.uk
