Midlands investment showcase

Midlands investment showcase

Marketing Derby is gearing up to showcase an impressive portfolio of investment opportunities at a major event due to take place later this month.

The Midlands UK Forum for Growth will bring together key stakeholders to help achieve the region’s vision for growth and economic prosperity with investment pitches being planned for both Derby City and Derbyshire County Councils.

Ahead of the Forum, Derby City Council has unveiled a new 26-page online Investment Prospectus, supported by a three-minute film, both of which can be viewed here.

Both the prospectus and film showcase 17 major investment opportunities in the city – and will be used to wow investors at the event, which will be held entirely on a digital platform, from 24th to 26th November

John Forkin, managing director of Marketing Derby, said: “The Coronavirus pandemic has led to the cancellation of the entire inward investment event calendar for 2020.

“This online forum will be the first opportunity to engage with investors and we are co-ordinating a proactive and positive profile for Derby and Derbyshire.”

Hosted by the Midlands Engine Partnership, the event will see public and private organisations from across the region, along with international investors, given a comprehensive insight into the region’s strategy, policy and plans for sustainable growth.

Each day has been given a theme. Day One will centre around growth, Day Two will focus on collaboration and Day Three will be all about what the future holds.

On Day One, Councillor Matthew Holmes, Derby City Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for regeneration, planning and transportation, along with the city council’s chief executive, Paul Simpson, will deliver a presentation called Investing in Derby - UK Capital for Innovation.

They will outline the investment opportunities in Derby, including ongoing projects, shovel-ready schemes and pipeline developments that have the potential to give the local economy a major boost.

On Day Two, Nicola Swaney, education outreach manager at Marketing Derby Bondholder Rolls-Royce, will be part of a panel discussion called Skills and Education – Building a Brighter Future, and Rachel North, strategic director for communities and place at Derby City Council, will make a pitch for the 100-acre Infinity Park Derby enterprise zone.

Finally, on Day Three, Councillor Barry Lewis, leader of Derbyshire County Council and cabinet member for strategic leadership, culture and tourism, will be part of a key panel discussion called Revitalising the Visitor Economy, promoting one of the county's key sectors.

Mr Forkin said: "We are delighted to have secured slots for senior representation from both Derby City and Derbyshire County Councils, as well as for our largest employer, Rolls-Royce.

“As we look to move past the pandemic, investors are seeking assurance and the confidence to work with areas that have a vision and plan to change.

“Events like this are the beginning of that conversation and over 2021 we will be stepping up our activity both online and, eventually in face-to-face events once again."

To view the full timetable and register your place, visit midlandsukforumforgrowth.co.uk.

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