THE Northamptonshire economy continues to go from strength to strength, boosted by the many dynamic, fast-growing business located across the region. However, with the UK negotiating its exit from the EU, challenges – and also opportunities – lie ahead and a collaborative approach will be vital to help drive the county’s growth forward.
Collaboration, based on sharing knowledge, skills and resources, lies at the heart of Grant Thornton’s Vibrant Economy work to help shape a more progressive and productive economy for all at a local, regional and national level.
This thinking was also behind the Silverstone Technology Cluster (STC) which launched 18 months ago following a report which highlighted a growing cluster of innovative high-tech firms in and around the Silverstone area, covering a range of sectors from motorsport, defence to automotive.
The STC is a not-for-profit organisation which brings these businesses together in a collaborative environment where they can achieve their full potential and in turn, help to attract more businesses, investors and opportunities to the region.
Mark Clement from Grant Thornton’s Northampton office which is one of the STC founding members, said: “The STC was created to help further nurture some of the region’s most forward-looking businesses and showcase what the area has to offer so it becomes synonymous with creativity and innovation.
“Since its launch, the STC has gained strong momentum with over 30 businesses now part of the cluster, working together to create new opportunities and building stronger connections to address common needs and challenges.
“The approach of the STC mirrors our work at Grant Thornton which extends beyond this still to encourage collaboration not just between businesses but all organisations, from not for profit and education to the public sector, which play an important role in shaping our local economy.
“We believe that by getting people, businesses and the community working together, we can stimulate ideas and actions that will help realise the region’s untapped potential, generating a more prosperous economy to benefit everyone.
“We now have an opportunity to create a truly vibrant economy and we hope as many local leaders and community representatives as possible will join us to become part of this important conversation and help shape the future of Northamptonshire.”
For more information about the Silverstone Technology Cluster (STC) visit www.silverstonetechnologycluster.com
