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Economy and Innovation

Rebuilding our economy for a better future

The West Midlands was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. We have long been the nation’s engine room, driving economic growth through innovation and hard work. Now we want to lead a new, green revolution and create thousands of new jobs in digital innovation. This will help boost the economy and ultimately improve life for all who live, work, and play in the West Midlands.

Our region is already leading work on several new technologies in the UK. The West Midlands is the test site of autonomous vehicles and 5G. It’s home to the Energy Systems Catapult, which is working to move the UK to a low-carbon energy system. We also have world-class science, energy and technology parks. These distinctive strengths are globally competitive and are what sets us apart from other regions. By utilising these strengths, we can regain this growth momentum.

We want to rethink and rebuild the economy to build a better future for everyone in the UK.

To do this, we’re focusing on:

  • Digital innovation
  • Building a net-zero economy and creating thousands of green manufacturing jobs
  • Maximising job creation for local people from HS2 and other unique West Midlands opportunities
  • Developing infrastructure - building better digital and transport links

What we're doing

Focussing on digital innovation

We're helping businesses and public sector organisations to learn about 5G. We have 5G innovation centres in Birmingham, Coventry and Wolverhampton.

Building a net-zero economy

By prioritising green growth, we can Build Back Greener, and achieve our ambition to be a Net Zero region by 2041.

Creating jobs from HS2

By making the most of these opportunities, we can unlock inward investment into infrastructure and maximum growth in the wider UK economy.
Find out what we're doing in your area

Economy and Innovation programmes

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UKSPF

Learn about the UK Shared Prosperity Fund

Digi Innovation 2 Digital

Digital Innovation

Learn how we're changing the region

Bike Life Friargate, Coventry

Net-Zero Economy

Learn how you can get involved

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Economic Analysis

Read the latest WM REDI report

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WM Innovation Accelerator

Forging relationships between government and our region

Portway Lifestyle Centre (1)

Health Inequalities

Join workshops focusing on the potential for health devolution

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Plan for Growth

Learn about our plans to drive economic growth

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West Midlands Investment Zone

Learn how the West Midlands Investment Zone is supporting the development of the Advanced Manufacturing sector in our region.

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