Raising the bar: A white paper to supercharge North East growth

The North East is entering a new era.

With the North East Combined Authority comes a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reimagine the region’s economic, social and cultural landscapes.

And to unleash the true power of devolution, N publisher NET – working alongside leading UK and Ireland wealth management firm Fairstone – has created a white paper aimed at turbocharging its impact.

From measures to boost business investment, improve transport links, strengthen skills pathways and reduce inequality, the document – titled Raising the bar: A blueprint to supercharge North East growth– sets clear goals to catalyse watershed change.

Founded upon six high-level roundtable discussions featuring nearly 50 senior North East commercial sector figures, the document provides a detailed, business-led agenda focused on transforming the region into a national and global powerhouse.

Click here to download the white paper, or email author and Bdaily editor Steven Hugill at [email protected] if you would like a printed copy of the document.

Headline white paper action points include:

• The creation of an investment ladder to provide early-stage, scale-up and mature businesses with easier access to capital
• Greater support for existing standout businesses, rapidly-scaling SMEs and university spin-outs, and a renewed focus on high-value employment over job volume
• Strengthened ties between industry and education to equip learners with skills for the jobs of tomorrow
• Transport improvements to bolster inter-regional, domestic and global connectivity
• A refreshed commercial narrative that showcases the North East’s investment opportunities domestically and internationally

John Duns, NET business development director, says: “We’re delighted to officially launch the white paper, which has been crafted over many months using the knowledge, insight and expertise of North East business leaders.

“It speaks clearly and candidly to policymakers, investors and organisations alike, providing target-driven goals the region can achieve.

“Through its clearly defined development strategies, this white paper can help drive tangible growth for decades to come.”

Lee Hartley, Fairstone founder and deputy chair, adds: “The North East has arrived at a pivotal moment.

“Devolution represents an incredible opportunity to create a region that thrives locally while competing on wider domestic and global stages.

“But to realise that potential, we must be bold and brave, combining a refreshed identity with considered investment, skills and infrastructure strategies that lay a platform for long-term growth.

“This white paper presents a clear roadmap to translate opportunity into measurable economic impact.”

In conjunction with the white paper, NET and Fairstone have launched a survey that allows you – business leaders and entrepreneurs from across the North East – to play your part in shaping the region’s devolution agenda.

Featuring questions focused on investment and expansion goals, your responses will provide an informed picture of the North East’s funding landscape, and where devolution can be harnessed to strengthen capital opportunities over years to come.

Click here to take part in the survey.

The white paper will be officially showcased at an invite-only dinner in Newcastle next year, where guests will hear about latest policy developments.