Appendix B Inward Investment Bodies

Investment can be secured by working with existing investors and companies operating within a particular region or sector, or by seeking new investors whether that be domestic or international. There are a large number of Inward Investment Bodies operating in the UK seeking to harness such investment. In short, such bodies initiate interventions which aim to build and maintain a strong investment promotion service. They facilitate investment by providing information and business support to make investing easier.

Inward Investment Bodies are concerned with a particular geographical area, determined by regional circumstances, and are a key conduit for investment by bringing together diverse partners which all have a vested interest in the fortunes of a region. Partners can include councils, growth hubs, local enterprise partnerships, colleges and universities, and the private sector.

As an example of the work such bodies undertake and how they aim to secure investment, the following Investment Bodies are explored below:

MIDAS

Invest in Bristol and Bath

West Midlands Growth Company

CityCo

Coast to Capital Growth Hub (Brighton)

Make it Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire

Invest Liverpool

Invest in Greater Norwich

Midas

MIDAS is wholly owned by the Greater Manchester Combined Authority. It is part of The Growth Company, which supports the growth and prosperity of Greater Manchester through the provision of services that will raise Manchester’s profile, attract investment, help generate new business, support existing businesses to grow, and provide individuals with new skills and employment opportunities.

MIDAS offers a free and confidential package of services that are tailored to a companies’ needs. Support is available to both national and international firms of all sizes that are considering or wish to relocate to (or expand in) Greater Manchester, including:

Investment case development including market intelligence and research

Sourcing property solutions

International market support

Advice on recruitment and training

Introductions to appropriate networks, suppliers, agencies and educational establishments

Information on understanding and navigating potential market opportunities

Invest Bristol and Bath

Invest Bristol & Bath is the investment promotion agency for the Bristol and Bath region, part of the West of England Local Enterprise Partnership, and supported by the region’s four Local Authorities. It supports foreign direct investment, UK national companies, and companies already in the region as they grow and expand. The investment arm offers tailored support to companies interested in relocating and growing in the Bristol and Bath region, including the following services:

Bespoke research and provision of regional economic information to support business planning

Talent support in accessing and recruiting high quality staff

Support in identifying the right property and business location

Advice, support, and assistance for relocating staff

Simplified access to relevant council, regional business services, and suppliers

Introduction to cluster networks, meetups, and event activity in the region

Ongoing support ensuring your business continues to develop and grow