Government, business and local enterprise came together on October 8th to share their views on how to create the right environment for Innovation and business growth. Dav-idea Workshops hosted their first seminar on “Perspectives on Innovation” at Macclesfield Chamber of Commerce.
Opening the session Macclesfield MP David Rutley gave an insight on how the government is trying to create the macro-economic framework for businesses to thrive. Not only by removing barriers to enterprise, but also by working with local enterprise partnerships, business and local authorities to create new strategic opportunities within areas such as the new Alderley Life Science Park. In his presentation, David explained how innovation is key to the growth and success of the region – which already out performs other areas in terms of small business start-ups, and high tech enterprises. The area is fortunate in having access to top ranking universities, but also relies on local colleges to provide high quality apprenticeships.
Howard Hopwood (Deputy Chair of the Cheshire and Warrington Local Enterprise) partnership reminded the group that Macclesfield is part of a much wider area of opportunity – the Northern Power House. Connecting major towns and cities in the North West to create more powerful and successful clusters in science and technology. Innovation is a critical component of economic competitiveness and firms that invest in innovation grow faster and are more productive. They are also more likely to be exporters.
Howard announced that in November the LEP are launching a new Business Hub for the area. The Hub will help SMEs access the support and funding available from european, government and regional bodies, which has never been greater.
Charlie Rea from the Business Growth Service expanded on the tailored support that the Business Growth Service offers to SMEs; from business start-up and new product development through to commercialisation and export.
From the large enterprises to the smaller business of Macclesfield and Bollington, Fiona Davidson, business coach at Dav-idea Workshops illustrated the success of local business to innovate, increase turnover and create new jobs.
Karen Davies, also a business coach at Dav-idea Workshops, closed the session with a light-hearted view on “How not to innovate”. Everyone recognised the harm a “I didn’t get where I am today by listening to my customers and employees”* management style can do to a business. [ * CJ from Rise and Fall of Reggie Perrin]
After the workshop, David Rutley commented, “I was pleased to be able to participate in the well organised Dav-idea workshop, which helped underline why Macclesfield is such a great place to do business. Innovation and enterprise have been at the heart of our economic history, and will continue to be in the decades ahead.”