Business Growth Strategy - Implementing the Growth Strategy in Partnership

Unlocking greater levels of business growth in Walsall requires concerted and collaborative effort across agencies, including regional bodies, neighbouring local authorities, Walsall College, sector bodies, business membership organisations and regional Universities. It is important that everyone involved goes into the delivery phase with an appreciation of the basis on which the Council Business Growth service operates currently and some of the positive assets that will help it navigate forwards. Many of the actions in the Growth Strategy will be achieved through collaboration rather than direct Council delivery, and that some elements will continue to evolve as the regional operating model is finalised. 

The current range of services offered to Walsall businesses are largely determined by the policy and investment decisions of national government and the West Midlands Mayoral Combined Authority. This strategy sets out a menu of initiatives and services that would help drive growth. The associated Action Plan carefully considers the realistic timeframe over which existing provision can be adapted and new provision brought forward and is pragmatic about the scale of any new investment in business growth services. 

We are committed to continuing our outward and collaborative approach by working closely with other agencies such as Walsall College, and key businesses trading locally, not least via the Walsall Economic Forum, to achieve our business growth ambitions. There is a base of engaged businesses operating locally that have shown a commitment to growth and are ready to engage with public sector agencies to help us progress our business growth ambitions. The energy, insight and commitment of these businesses will be nurtured and harnessed to help create a positive business climate locally and be centre stage when we make our case for investment to the outside world.