Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership continues to be committed to delivering the programmes that we have funding for, continuing Worcestershire’s development towards being a modern, creative and innovative economy.
Our funded schemes are progressing well, helping to develop skills, create jobs and leverage private and public sector funding. The voice of the business community, however, is vital in our ambition to do more and develop a strong pipeline of projects for the future growth of our local economy and to further increase productivity.
The WLEP Business Plan Workshop on 13 April provides a fantastic opportunity for businesses to understand how they can be further involved in the work of the partnership as well as provide ideas across all areas of our business plan so please do secure your place before 18 March. If you would like a greater involvement in the work of the WLEP, there are a few days remaining to submit your application for a position on the Business Board. The work of the Business Board is invaluable in providing a sounding board for advice and feedback to the Board to ensure that the voices of businesses are heard, as well as being a conduit to facilitate further engagement with leaders across all sectors. Full details are available on our website here and please do get your application in before this closes on 4 March 2016.
I would encourage all local businesses to get involved in National Apprenticeship Week #NAW2016 which runs from 14-18 March. There are a range of events taking place and the social media campaign #MadebyApprentices provides an opportunity for you to celebrate the invaluable contribution apprentices make to your workplace and the excellent goods and services that your company produces.
Finally, the Worcestershire LEP will once again be exhibiting at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce Expo on Thursday this week (4 March) and we look forward to seeing many businesses there. I would also encourage you to find out more about the many events available from UKTI that will help you to strengthen your international presence and to grow your business through exporting.