Forum will aid investment in the Midlands

Public and private sector leaders and investors from around the world will convene from November 24 to 26 for the forum.

The trade and investment showcase event is led by the Midlands Engine partnership and will bring together key stakeholders to achieve the region’s vision for greater sustainable growth and economic prosperity.

The Midlands is home to almost 11 million people and drives 22 per cent of England's exports and generates £239 billion for the UK economy each year.

The forum was officially announced to the Midlands Engine executive board and guests.

Sir John Peace, chairman of the Midlands Engine, introduced what will be the region's first totally virtual investment showcase, commenting: "Right now, as the world continues to fight Covid-19 and we all face our own regional and national challenges, we also have an opportunity to build back stronger, better and greener. The theme for Midlands UK reflects this: ‘The Future. Ours to Make’. It recognises that, as part of fulfilling the incredible potential for growth in the Midlands, championed by the Midlands Engine, investment in sustainable infrastructure, our region's businesses and our position at the heart of a green recovery are vitally important.”

The forum will involve both public and private organisations, along with international investors, to gain a comprehensive insight into the region’s strategy, policy and plans for sustainable growth from infrastructure, investment and innovation, to skills and education, homes and communities, clean energy and technology.

Communities Secretary and Midlands Engine Champion Rt Hon Robert Jenrick MP said: “A thriving Midlands Engine is essential to a successful UK economy, and will be vital to the recovery of the country from the pandemic as we all begin to build back better.

“That’s why this Government is backing the Midlands with the investment the region needs to grow its £250bn economy. With the substantial financial support that the Government has provided, we can ensure that its businesses are able to fire on all cylinders and truly level up communities across the region.

“As Midlands Engine Champion it is great to see how the partnership is promoting the wealth of investment opportunities the Midlands has to offer, both nationally and globally, as a region at the vanguard of our green recovery and the heart of the country’s transport and logistics.”

The forum will take place entirely on a digital platform, with delegates able to engage and interact with leaders from the region’s leading and most innovative public and private sector.

Speaker will include Sir John and West Midlands Mayor Andy Street.

There will be more than 45 presentations and panel discussions on topics including: the Commonwealth Games, HS2 infrastructure, repurposing high streets and city centres and infrastructure for growth

The forum is being is organised by Movers & Shakers Property Networking Forum.

David Jennings, chairman of Movers & Shakers, said: “With the pandemic and current economic challenges there has never been a more important time to highlight the scale of growth in the Midlands and the breadth of investment opportunities. The Midlands UK Forum for Growth is a three-day conference that we hope will present the right environment for collaboration and will showcase ripe investment and growth opportunities.”

For further information about the Midlands UK Forum for Growth, visit: www.midlandsukforumforgrowth.co.uk