Opportunity knocks for Gloucestershire at Insider Media breakfast event

The event highlighted both the opportunities and challenges faced by Gloucestershire, assessing which sectors and businesses are poised for future success. Bringing together a panel of leading regional public and private sector figures, including business leaders from various industries, the discussion focused on the county's economic outlook.

Key topics included the main drivers and challenges for SMEs and industry leaders in the region, ways the public and private sectors can collaborate to develop the "skills of tomorrow," and the infrastructure and community-building requirements necessary to maintain Gloucestershires appeal for inward investment.

Overall, the panel discussions were highly positive, emphasising the countys strengths in skills development, particularly the excellent apprenticeship opportunities available for businesses to access fresh talent. Additionally, The Growth Hub network offers free advice to small businesses, while funding opportunities through the South West Investment Fund provide further support for growth.

The panel also agreed that Gloucestershire boasts strong connectivity to the rest of the country, exceptional access to universities and further education providers, and strong collaboration between enterprises and educators. From a lifestyle, cost, and growth perspective, the region presents a compelling proposition for investors.

Some challenges were also discussed, including the need for improved public transport, enhanced leisure and hospitality facilities, and better co-ordination of business support services for startups and SMEs.

Despite these hurdles, the consensus was clear, Gloucestershire is an ideal launchpad for startup businesses, offering a dynamic and supportive environment for growth.