The York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Business Board has endorsed the key focus areas for the region’s Local Growth Plan, identifying priority sectors for economic development.
The Board, established in November to advise on strategy and policy, met in Harrogate to support the ‘Competitive Advantage Sectors,’ which include Food and Farming Innovation, Engineering Biology and Life Sciences, Clean Energy, Rail Innovation and Security, and Creative Industries and Heritage. The plan will undergo consultation with industry leaders.
Sector champions, including tourism and hospitality, manufacturing, and SMEs, have been appointed to drive development in these areas. They will engage with businesses and provide direct input to the Mayor and the Combined Authority.
Additional agenda items included a national review of small business support, updates on York and North Yorkshire’s Business Innovation Programme, and discussions on fostering female entrepreneurship in the region.
The Business Board aims to position York and North Yorkshire as a leader in rural economic development, leveraging its strengths to drive long-term growth.
