Supporting the Region's Businesses

Home to 247,000 businesses and a strong regional economy, the Northwest is a great place to live and work. The wealth of regional, national and international businesses is complemented by a true entrepreneurial spirit which has seen business start-ups on the rise even during difficult economic times.

Competitiveness, growth and efficiency are the building blocks for securing a strong business future for the region – but the reality of building businesses is rather more complicated, which is why we have strategies and policies for supporting businesses in the area; to help them turn their ideas for success into a reality.

The NWDA wants to support the region’s businesses and promote the Northwest as a suitable home for international businesses.

A healthy economy isn’t just about growth; it’s also about helping businesses weather financial storms, such as the current economic crisis. We do this through offering advice and financial support to businesses.

The Agency is investing heavily in the financial support it offers to businesses in the region, offering small loans for business as well as a transitional loan fund to help SMEs facing a temporary shortfall in their working capital. Our new Venture Capital & Loan Funding is due to be launched later this year, offering a combination of loan, equity and mezzanine funding to support business growth. And we have an innovative private equity investor network, Northwest Business Angels, who invest in new or expanding businesses. We also offer funding for business investment, innovation, R&D and resource efficiency.

The world has a fast-paced economy and the Northwest’s business landscape is constantly changing – and our businesses need to adapt to survive. To aid this, we also promote the development of business innovation and advancements in key business sectors.

Also see Sustainable Consumption for information on how the NWDA is helping the Region tackle Climate Change