My Article as published in The Guardian http://www.guardian.co.uk/local-government-network/2011/dec/01/local-enterprise-partnerships-bright-future
Although they've been unfairly criticised, LEPs have made a lot of progress in their first year and there's a lot to be excited about
Lorna Gibbons
Guardian Professional, Thursday 1 December 2011 08.45
Local Enterprise Partnerships have a bright future.
The first 24 local enterprise partnerships (LEPs) were established more than year ago. The Centre for Cities thinktank has produced a report on the progress of the partnerships to mark their first anniversary, claiming LEPs are underperforming and have made little headway since their creation. I take issue with this conclusion.
The study looks at a number of variables on which performance can be judged, from governance to communications. These measures are largely irrelevant to the success, or otherwise, of the LEPs to date.
When it comes to governance, LEPs come in different shapes and sizes. Some created a shadow board, some did not. Some had their boards recognised by government, while others did not – but that is not to say a board does not exist. Solent's LEP recruited its board through a fair and open process, but as there is still a vacancy for a woman in the team it has yet to be recognised centrally. Solent is not the only LEP in this position.
Each LEP will have indicated its own strategy and local priorities, outlined in its prospectus. Published information about each partnership's focus does exist and the partnerships are accountable to their own ambitions. Enterprise zones, however, were bid for through a competitive process. If an LEP did not win an accompanying enterprise zone, that does not mean the partnership has failed to achieve its objectives; it is more likely that, geographically and politically, the area is less suitable for such a policy.
It is true that there may be a two-tier LEP structure developing. There are LEPs that have enterprise zones, access to a regional growth fund and established partnership arrangements, which will give them an advantage over other LEP areas with less history, smaller budgets and fewer projects to lever in business support. But these LEPs will still be able to make a major impact.
Communications should also not be used to judge LEPs. Having a dedicated website does not equate with local success. The South East LEP, for example, does not have its own website, but it publishes timely information about its work through Essex county council's site (with weekly board updates) and is probably saving a lot of money in the process.
But looking to the future, there is a lot for LEPs to be excited about. The partnerships are currently spending their start-up fund drawing up business plans, recruiting and training boards, putting communications strategies in place and other first tasks. This should level the playing field by the end of March 2012, for all of the 38 LEPs now in action.
A second-round capacity pot will be announced shortly, with additional funding made available in April 2012. A number of LEPs, including Greater Manchester, Solent and Cornwall, also placed successful regional growth fund bids.
The £500m Growing Places Fund prospectus is now out. Funding has been allocated to LEPs on a formula basis and they are expected to receive their allocation in February next year. This funding will be ploughed into new infrastructure. It is also worth noting that Buckinghamshire's planned LEP has been allocated £4,167,713 (subject to ministerial approval) – a strong indicator that the 39th partnership is soon to be announced.
LEP sector groups are also being established, including a rural network and an aerospace group – some of which have already met. Meanwhile, the government intends to consult a new structure and devolve decisions and funding for local capital transport improvements from April 2015 to a number of "local transport consortia", each made up of a number of LEPs and their constituent councils.
LEPs will have a fuller and more varied role in future, and they have made a lot of progress over their first year.
Tuesday, 10 April 2012
Saturday, 14 January 2012
Possible sources of funding for business January 2012
Regional Growth Fund
A £1 billion boost to the Regional Growth Fund was announced in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement. That there will be at least two further rounds of bidding, with the next round opening during February 2012. The focus of the fund is creating jobs, encouraging private investment and supporting areas dependent on the public sector.
More information about the fund and details of previously successful projects can be found here: http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/Detail.aspx?ReleaseID=422350&NewsAreaID=2
We anticipate details of how to apply for the funding and application forms will be available via this site in due course http://www.bis.gov.uk/policies/economic-development/regional-growth-fund
Business Angels co fund
This is a successful project from a previous round of the Regional Growth Fund. The British Business Angels Association (BBAA) is the national trade association dedicated to promoting angel investing and supporting early stage investment in the UK. BBAA works to create an ecosystem to help support the industry through bringing together angel networks, private investors, early stage funds and professional advisors.
The fund aims to support long-term, high quality jobs in growing companies. The fund is able to make initial equity investments of between £100K and £1M in to SMEs alongside syndicates of business angels, subject to certain geographical restrictions and an upper limit of 49% of any investment round.
The fund is not open to direct approaches from individual businesses and those seeking investment should first secure the interest of the business angel syndicate or network. Businesses seeking investment can find more information on business angels, syndicates and networks from the British Business Angels Association website http://www.bbaa.org.uk/
Information about the fund itself can be found here: http://www.angelcofund.co.uk/
Grant for Business Investment
Grant for Business Investment offers grant support for sustainable business investment and job creation projects in South West England.
The scheme focuses support on high-quality, innovative, knowledge-based projects that lead to long-term improvements in productivity, skills and employment. The majority of jobs created are expected to be at NVQ Level 2 and above. Projects such as launching a new business, expanding existing companies, introducing new technology into manufacturing or taking a new product into production will be eligible for support.
http://www.communities.gov.uk/regeneration/regenerationfunding/europeanregionaldevelopment/cornwallscilly/applyingforfunding/grantbusinessinvestment/
For more information contact the Department for Communities and Local Government Business Investment Team on 0303 444 6575.
Apprenticeships
National Apprenticeships Service website including how to take on an apprentice and what you will get paid for doing so http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/
You might also be interested in this commons Library standard note which outlines Government Policy around apprenticeships http://www.parliament.uk/briefing-papers/SN03052
Manufacturing
The new Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) is now available to all manufacturing businesses across England. “The new Manufacturing Advisory Service will play a key role, providing tailored advice to businesses helping them to grow and thrive, with a specific focus on helping SMEs improve competitiveness and unlock their growth potential.” If you would like to find out more you can visit http://www.mymas.org/
or call an advisor on 0845 658 9600.
Small manufacturing businesses will also have access to a new initiative recently announced by the Government to improve the global competitiveness of UK advanced manufacturing supply chains. The up to £125 million fund will cover the whole of England and will help to support the UK supply chain, encourage new suppliers to invest in the UK and support economic growth. The Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative aims to help existing UK supply chains grow and achieve world class standards while encouraging major new suppliers to come and manufacture here.
The new fund will support innovative projects in established UK advanced manufacturing sectors such as aerospace, automotive and chemicals. It will also target newer growth areas where the UK is well placed to take a global lead, such as energy renewables and other low carbon sectors. Information on how to apply will be via this website http://www.innovateuk.org/content/competition-announcements/advanced-manufacturing-supply-chain-initiative.ashx
Get Britain Building Fund
This is a £420M fund to unlock stalled sites and get Britain building again in 2012
Developers will be able to apply for a share of the funding, whether as a loan at commercial rates or as an equity investment - where the Government invests alongside the developer.
The amount individual developers receive from the fund will be no more than 50 per cent of a project's total costs and all projects must restart on site by December next year.
All homes funded through Get Britain Building must be completed by December 2014 - so developers applying for the funding must also have sites with outline planning permission, and the support of the local council.
Information on how to apply for the funding can be found here: http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/get-britain-building
Growth and Innovation Fund
The government has launched the second Growth and Innovation Fund that enables businesses to bid for grants in order to train and develop staff members. The Fund has £60 million to invest in 2012-13 and similar amounts in the follow two future years
Apply here: http://skillsfundingagency.bis.gov.uk/employers/growth-innovation-fund/
Mid-sized businesses (MSBs)
The Government has just launched a new campaign to support and raise the profile of mid-sized businesses and help them grow into tomorrow’s success stories.
The exact details of this programme of activity are not yet available. More information can be found in this press release: http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=422755&SubjectId=2
Setting up a mutual
If you have an idea for setting up a mutual and need further assistance in developing it, or just want to know more about the process of becoming a public service mutual look here http://mutuals.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/
A £1 billion boost to the Regional Growth Fund was announced in the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement. That there will be at least two further rounds of bidding, with the next round opening during February 2012. The focus of the fund is creating jobs, encouraging private investment and supporting areas dependent on the public sector.
More information about the fund and details of previously successful projects can be found here: http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/Detail.aspx?ReleaseID=422350&NewsAreaID=2
We anticipate details of how to apply for the funding and application forms will be available via this site in due course http://www.bis.gov.uk/policies/economic-development/regional-growth-fund
Business Angels co fund
This is a successful project from a previous round of the Regional Growth Fund. The British Business Angels Association (BBAA) is the national trade association dedicated to promoting angel investing and supporting early stage investment in the UK. BBAA works to create an ecosystem to help support the industry through bringing together angel networks, private investors, early stage funds and professional advisors.
The fund aims to support long-term, high quality jobs in growing companies. The fund is able to make initial equity investments of between £100K and £1M in to SMEs alongside syndicates of business angels, subject to certain geographical restrictions and an upper limit of 49% of any investment round.
The fund is not open to direct approaches from individual businesses and those seeking investment should first secure the interest of the business angel syndicate or network. Businesses seeking investment can find more information on business angels, syndicates and networks from the British Business Angels Association website http://www.bbaa.org.uk/
Information about the fund itself can be found here: http://www.angelcofund.co.uk/
Grant for Business Investment
Grant for Business Investment offers grant support for sustainable business investment and job creation projects in South West England.
The scheme focuses support on high-quality, innovative, knowledge-based projects that lead to long-term improvements in productivity, skills and employment. The majority of jobs created are expected to be at NVQ Level 2 and above. Projects such as launching a new business, expanding existing companies, introducing new technology into manufacturing or taking a new product into production will be eligible for support.
http://www.communities.gov.uk/regeneration/regenerationfunding/europeanregionaldevelopment/cornwallscilly/applyingforfunding/grantbusinessinvestment/
For more information contact the Department for Communities and Local Government Business Investment Team on 0303 444 6575.
Apprenticeships
National Apprenticeships Service website including how to take on an apprentice and what you will get paid for doing so http://www.apprenticeships.org.uk/
You might also be interested in this commons Library standard note which outlines Government Policy around apprenticeships http://www.parliament.uk/briefing-papers/SN03052
Manufacturing
The new Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) is now available to all manufacturing businesses across England. “The new Manufacturing Advisory Service will play a key role, providing tailored advice to businesses helping them to grow and thrive, with a specific focus on helping SMEs improve competitiveness and unlock their growth potential.” If you would like to find out more you can visit http://www.mymas.org/
or call an advisor on 0845 658 9600.
Small manufacturing businesses will also have access to a new initiative recently announced by the Government to improve the global competitiveness of UK advanced manufacturing supply chains. The up to £125 million fund will cover the whole of England and will help to support the UK supply chain, encourage new suppliers to invest in the UK and support economic growth. The Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative aims to help existing UK supply chains grow and achieve world class standards while encouraging major new suppliers to come and manufacture here.
The new fund will support innovative projects in established UK advanced manufacturing sectors such as aerospace, automotive and chemicals. It will also target newer growth areas where the UK is well placed to take a global lead, such as energy renewables and other low carbon sectors. Information on how to apply will be via this website http://www.innovateuk.org/content/competition-announcements/advanced-manufacturing-supply-chain-initiative.ashx
Get Britain Building Fund
This is a £420M fund to unlock stalled sites and get Britain building again in 2012
Developers will be able to apply for a share of the funding, whether as a loan at commercial rates or as an equity investment - where the Government invests alongside the developer.
The amount individual developers receive from the fund will be no more than 50 per cent of a project's total costs and all projects must restart on site by December next year.
All homes funded through Get Britain Building must be completed by December 2014 - so developers applying for the funding must also have sites with outline planning permission, and the support of the local council.
Information on how to apply for the funding can be found here: http://www.homesandcommunities.co.uk/get-britain-building
Growth and Innovation Fund
The government has launched the second Growth and Innovation Fund that enables businesses to bid for grants in order to train and develop staff members. The Fund has £60 million to invest in 2012-13 and similar amounts in the follow two future years
Apply here: http://skillsfundingagency.bis.gov.uk/employers/growth-innovation-fund/
Mid-sized businesses (MSBs)
The Government has just launched a new campaign to support and raise the profile of mid-sized businesses and help them grow into tomorrow’s success stories.
The exact details of this programme of activity are not yet available. More information can be found in this press release: http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=422755&SubjectId=2
Setting up a mutual
If you have an idea for setting up a mutual and need further assistance in developing it, or just want to know more about the process of becoming a public service mutual look here http://mutuals.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/
Wednesday, 16 November 2011
Localism Act and LEPs
I have been trying to understand how the Localism Act will impact on LEPs.
One of the key measures to increase the power of local government through the Act is by opening the door for the transfer of power to our major cities to develop their areas, improve local services, and boost their local economies, specifically to promote economic development or wealth creation.
Further powers can be devolved to core cities at their request, without the need for additional legislation.
As I understand it there are 8 core cities.
| Core Cities | LEP |
| Birmingham | Greater Birmingham and Solihull |
| Bristol | West of England |
| Leeds | Leeds City Region |
| Liverpool | Liverpool City Region |
| Manchester | Greater Manchester |
| Newcastle | North Eastern |
| Nottingham | Derby Derbyshire Nottingham Nottinghamshire |
| Sheffield | Sheffield City Region |
It will be interesting to see what powers are requested and by whom.
It will also be interesting how the role of elected mayors fits into LEPs. As 11 cities will be able to decide whether or not to have an elected Mayor.
Sunday, 13 November 2011
LEP and other funding update
There are a few new funding sources / amouncements that are worth capturing.
Growing Places Fund
The Growing Places Fund will provide £500m to enable the development of local funds to address infrastructure constraints, promoting economic growth and the delivery of jobs and houses. Information can be found here:
http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/regeneration/growingplacesfund
Things to note: LEP areas have been allocated an indicative distribution, subject to successful completion of a pre qualification questionnaire due on 20th December. Buckinghamshire LEP has an allocation. This is subject to Ministerial approval of the local enterprise partnership proposal. It would seem that the 39th LEP is imminent.
http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=421936&SubjectId=2
Regional Growth Fund Round Two
There were 119 sucessful bids announced http://www.bis.gov.uk/policies/economic-development/regional-growth-fund/successful-2nd-round-bids but some bids have more than one project hence over 150 projects are listed.
In addition some other sucessful bids have also been announced eg Princess Yachts and RBS, NatWest and HSBC have agreed to facilitate the distribution of the £95 million - which is part of the government’s RGF to SMEs http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=421994&SubjectId=2
Business Growth Fund
Apply Investment Criteria
•Target companies that demonstrate a strong growth trajectory and have a turnover between £5m and £100m
•Offer investments of between £2m to £10m in return for an equity stake in the business and a seat on the Board
•As Board Members, contribute business guidance as well as capital for growth
•Invest over the long term - five to seven years or more; and
•Consider investment opportunities across all sectors apart from financial services and real estate.
http://www.businessgrowthfund.co.uk/about-us
Growing Places Fund
The Growing Places Fund will provide £500m to enable the development of local funds to address infrastructure constraints, promoting economic growth and the delivery of jobs and houses. Information can be found here:
http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/regeneration/growingplacesfund
Things to note: LEP areas have been allocated an indicative distribution, subject to successful completion of a pre qualification questionnaire due on 20th December. Buckinghamshire LEP has an allocation. This is subject to Ministerial approval of the local enterprise partnership proposal. It would seem that the 39th LEP is imminent.
http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=421936&SubjectId=2
Regional Growth Fund Round Two
There were 119 sucessful bids announced http://www.bis.gov.uk/policies/economic-development/regional-growth-fund/successful-2nd-round-bids but some bids have more than one project hence over 150 projects are listed.
In addition some other sucessful bids have also been announced eg Princess Yachts and RBS, NatWest and HSBC have agreed to facilitate the distribution of the £95 million - which is part of the government’s RGF to SMEs http://nds.coi.gov.uk/content/detail.aspx?NewsAreaId=2&ReleaseID=421994&SubjectId=2
Business Growth Fund
Apply Investment Criteria
•Target companies that demonstrate a strong growth trajectory and have a turnover between £5m and £100m
•Offer investments of between £2m to £10m in return for an equity stake in the business and a seat on the Board
•As Board Members, contribute business guidance as well as capital for growth
•Invest over the long term - five to seven years or more; and
•Consider investment opportunities across all sectors apart from financial services and real estate.
http://www.businessgrowthfund.co.uk/about-us
Tuesday, 1 November 2011
Why other LEP analysis doesn’t reflect the full picture: first round Local Enterprise Partnerships one year anniversary the real story
The original 24 Local Enterprise Partnerships were announced a year ago on 28th October. The Centre for Cities produced a report on LEPs to coincide with this date which looks at the progress of the first round of LEPs. In essence the report suggests that LEPs have made little progress over the last year and this is indicative of their underperformance. The report can be accessed via this link http://www.centreforcities.org/one-year-on-and-local-enterprise-partnerships-show-limited-progress.html.
I take issue with this report.
Figure 1 of the report looks at a number of variables which are suggested to be judging performance.
Having a shadow Board was one approach some LEPs took whilst recruiting a full Board. Having or not having a Shadow Board just looks at governance arrangements. It doesn’t represent progress as it is not a necessary step.
Another measure used was having a Board recognised by government. Not all LEPs have had their Board recognised by Government. This isn’t to say the Board doesn’t exist and wasn’t recruited using an open and honest process. Rumour has it that government won’t recognise an all male Board. Once again whether or not a Board is recognised by government isn’t representative of the Board existing and taking decisions.
All LEPs will have indicative priorities / strategy. In order to become a recognised LEP a prospectus had to be put together for government and part of this included what the LEP will focus on. Whilst I accept that this information might not be easily available, or indeed public it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. I would suggest that some LEPs could do with improving their communications, but this doesn’t mean strategic decisions are not being taken.
Enterprise Zones were bid for through a competitive process. A LEP area which doesn’t have an Enterprise Zone doesn’t mean the LEP has failed to achieve this it is more likely that geographically and politically the area is less suitable. Not all LEP areas even bid for EZ status. Also where a LEP wasn’t successful in achieving EZ status, new local freedoms mean that action can be taken. Accelerated Development Zones can be created http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/Plan-create-1-200-new-jobs/story-13709414-detail/story.html
In one sense it is true that there may be a two tier LEP structure developing. There are LEPs that have Enterprise Zones, Regional Growth Fund round one and two success and established partnership arrangements which will give them an advantage over other LEP areas without the joint working history or money and projects which can be used to lever in private sector support. The LEPs without these things I believe will still be able to make an impact. It might just be a bit harder to maintain private sector interest.
Having a dedicated website cannot be used to judge a LEPs performance. The South East LEP for example does not have a dedicated website but does through Essex County Council webpage’s contain some of the most through and timely information of any of the LEPs and probably is saving a lot of money through this approach http://www.essex.gov.uk/Business-Partners/Partners/Local-Enterprise-Partnership/Pages/Default.aspx I particularly value the weekly Board updates.
The South East LEP http://www.essex.gov.uk/Business-Partners/Partners/Local-Enterprise-Partnership/Documents/South_East_LEP_making_progress.pdf, New Anglia LEP http://www.eadt.co.uk/business/new_anglia_and_south_east_lep_chiefs_defend_partnership_s_performances_1_1110798 and Teesside LEP have defended their progress http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2011/10/28/teesside-lep-hits-back-after-report-blasts-progress-51140-29677836/ I am sure others have too.
I also like the Coventry and Warwickshire LEP area League Tables http://warksobservatory.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/local-enterprise-partnership.pdf but it should be remembered that this is looking at stats based on LEP geographies.
The problem with comparing LEPs is that you are not comparing like with like. They have different priorities, are different sizes, have different histories and different needs.
There is a lot of good news for LEPs.
LEPs are currently spending Start Up funding to for example get business plans, Bbards recruited and trained, websites and other comms in place etc this should level the playing field by the end of March 2012 of all the 38 LEPs.
First round capacity fund is also being spent by LEPs. Second round capacity fund will be announced soon with funding available from 1st April 2012.
Regional Growth Fund round two has just been announced. Four LEP (Leeds City Region, Greater Manchester, Solent, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly) bids were successful.
Leeds City Region secured £13.2m of funding for a package of nine projects that fell below the £1m threshold for individual RGF bids. This programme, Unlocking Growth in Advanced Manufacturing, along with other successful bids endorsed by the LEP brings the total funding secured by Leeds City Region to £32m, which is expected to unlock £257m of private investment and help create and safeguard 4,000 jobs.
Greater Manchester LEP’s bid into the RGF was £89m to secure a further £615m of investment and deliver 12,900 private-sector jobs directly, 11,500 indirectly and safeguard 2,470. The application was based around a programme of projects linking to themes of infrastructure in key investment locations, growth through innovation and technology, and high-growth businesses. Further details of which elements of the bid were successful are expected to emerge later this week.
Solent LEP also submitted a successful bid, entitled Bridging the gap: RGF Funding for SMEs in the Solent. The funding will allow the Solent LEP to manage a fund that new start-up businesses and SMEs looking to grow can bid into on a competitive basis.
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly LEP secured £13m from the RGF. This is to attract additional funding that will create a £43m programme to directly create or safeguard 3,200 jobs and indirectly create 2,100 jobs. The funding will be split into two
Above RGF section was taken from the October LEP Network Newsletter https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B5Vdxsrk2JSvNmRmN2I0OTMtZDVmZi00OTA5LWJjNmYtMGU0MWI2MTE3NmU2&hl=en_US&pli=1
Other LEPs supported RGF bids in their area.
LEP sector groups are being established, some of which have already met. For example there is a Rural Network and a National Automotive group. Soon there will also be one on Aerospace.
In the next few weeks the Growing Places Fund will be offered via prospectus to LEP. This is a DfT, DCLG and HMT pot.
There is currently a consultation on how the Government can put in place a structure to fully devolve decisions and funding for local capital transport improvements from April 2015 to a number of "local transport consortia," each made up of a number of LEPs and their constituent local authorities.
LEPs it seems will have a fuller and more varied role going forwards, given the developing roles of LEPs I believe they will make a difference and have made lots of progress over the last year.
I take issue with this report.
Figure 1 of the report looks at a number of variables which are suggested to be judging performance.
Having a shadow Board was one approach some LEPs took whilst recruiting a full Board. Having or not having a Shadow Board just looks at governance arrangements. It doesn’t represent progress as it is not a necessary step.
Another measure used was having a Board recognised by government. Not all LEPs have had their Board recognised by Government. This isn’t to say the Board doesn’t exist and wasn’t recruited using an open and honest process. Rumour has it that government won’t recognise an all male Board. Once again whether or not a Board is recognised by government isn’t representative of the Board existing and taking decisions.
All LEPs will have indicative priorities / strategy. In order to become a recognised LEP a prospectus had to be put together for government and part of this included what the LEP will focus on. Whilst I accept that this information might not be easily available, or indeed public it doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist. I would suggest that some LEPs could do with improving their communications, but this doesn’t mean strategic decisions are not being taken.
Enterprise Zones were bid for through a competitive process. A LEP area which doesn’t have an Enterprise Zone doesn’t mean the LEP has failed to achieve this it is more likely that geographically and politically the area is less suitable. Not all LEP areas even bid for EZ status. Also where a LEP wasn’t successful in achieving EZ status, new local freedoms mean that action can be taken. Accelerated Development Zones can be created http://www.thisisstaffordshire.co.uk/Plan-create-1-200-new-jobs/story-13709414-detail/story.html
In one sense it is true that there may be a two tier LEP structure developing. There are LEPs that have Enterprise Zones, Regional Growth Fund round one and two success and established partnership arrangements which will give them an advantage over other LEP areas without the joint working history or money and projects which can be used to lever in private sector support. The LEPs without these things I believe will still be able to make an impact. It might just be a bit harder to maintain private sector interest.
Having a dedicated website cannot be used to judge a LEPs performance. The South East LEP for example does not have a dedicated website but does through Essex County Council webpage’s contain some of the most through and timely information of any of the LEPs and probably is saving a lot of money through this approach http://www.essex.gov.uk/Business-Partners/Partners/Local-Enterprise-Partnership/Pages/Default.aspx I particularly value the weekly Board updates.
The South East LEP http://www.essex.gov.uk/Business-Partners/Partners/Local-Enterprise-Partnership/Documents/South_East_LEP_making_progress.pdf, New Anglia LEP http://www.eadt.co.uk/business/new_anglia_and_south_east_lep_chiefs_defend_partnership_s_performances_1_1110798 and Teesside LEP have defended their progress http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2011/10/28/teesside-lep-hits-back-after-report-blasts-progress-51140-29677836/ I am sure others have too.
I also like the Coventry and Warwickshire LEP area League Tables http://warksobservatory.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/local-enterprise-partnership.pdf but it should be remembered that this is looking at stats based on LEP geographies.
The problem with comparing LEPs is that you are not comparing like with like. They have different priorities, are different sizes, have different histories and different needs.
There is a lot of good news for LEPs.
LEPs are currently spending Start Up funding to for example get business plans, Bbards recruited and trained, websites and other comms in place etc this should level the playing field by the end of March 2012 of all the 38 LEPs.
First round capacity fund is also being spent by LEPs. Second round capacity fund will be announced soon with funding available from 1st April 2012.
Regional Growth Fund round two has just been announced. Four LEP (Leeds City Region, Greater Manchester, Solent, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly) bids were successful.
Leeds City Region secured £13.2m of funding for a package of nine projects that fell below the £1m threshold for individual RGF bids. This programme, Unlocking Growth in Advanced Manufacturing, along with other successful bids endorsed by the LEP brings the total funding secured by Leeds City Region to £32m, which is expected to unlock £257m of private investment and help create and safeguard 4,000 jobs.
Greater Manchester LEP’s bid into the RGF was £89m to secure a further £615m of investment and deliver 12,900 private-sector jobs directly, 11,500 indirectly and safeguard 2,470. The application was based around a programme of projects linking to themes of infrastructure in key investment locations, growth through innovation and technology, and high-growth businesses. Further details of which elements of the bid were successful are expected to emerge later this week.
Solent LEP also submitted a successful bid, entitled Bridging the gap: RGF Funding for SMEs in the Solent. The funding will allow the Solent LEP to manage a fund that new start-up businesses and SMEs looking to grow can bid into on a competitive basis.
Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly LEP secured £13m from the RGF. This is to attract additional funding that will create a £43m programme to directly create or safeguard 3,200 jobs and indirectly create 2,100 jobs. The funding will be split into two
Above RGF section was taken from the October LEP Network Newsletter https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B5Vdxsrk2JSvNmRmN2I0OTMtZDVmZi00OTA5LWJjNmYtMGU0MWI2MTE3NmU2&hl=en_US&pli=1
Other LEPs supported RGF bids in their area.
LEP sector groups are being established, some of which have already met. For example there is a Rural Network and a National Automotive group. Soon there will also be one on Aerospace.
In the next few weeks the Growing Places Fund will be offered via prospectus to LEP. This is a DfT, DCLG and HMT pot.
There is currently a consultation on how the Government can put in place a structure to fully devolve decisions and funding for local capital transport improvements from April 2015 to a number of "local transport consortia," each made up of a number of LEPs and their constituent local authorities.
LEPs it seems will have a fuller and more varied role going forwards, given the developing roles of LEPs I believe they will make a difference and have made lots of progress over the last year.
Tuesday, 25 October 2011
Free LEP event - discover Heart of the South West's priorities
Wednesday 2 November 2011
Albemarle Centre, Taunton(10am - 1pm with lunch and networking)
Book now to attend http://www.swo.org.uk/events/prospects-for-private-sector-growth/
The Coalition Government wants to increase private sector jobs growth, rebalance the economy and decentralise power to local communities. But faced with much reduced public spending, together with significant changes to the infrastructure that previously supported economic development and business growth, how feasible is this aim? What are the prospects for private sector jobs growth?
On Wednesday 2 November at the Albemarle Centre in Taunton the South West Observatory will launch a major piece of research recently compiled by the SWO Economy and Skills and Learning Modules. Key issues identified from the research will be presented alongside case study examples from the business community and South West LEPs.
Programme
9.30 - 10.00 Refreshments
10.00 - 10.10 Welcome Vinita Nawathe, Managing Director, SWO Core Unit
10.10 - 10.15 Introduction Chris Evans, Director, Skills and Learning Intelligence Module (SLIM)
10.15 - 10.35 Building globally-competitive local economies: the role of LEPs
Mike Spicer, Senior Policy Advisor, British Chambers of Commerce
10.35 - 10.55 Heart of the South West LEP: Priorities and evidence needs
Jeremy Filmer-Bennett, Interim Chief Executive, Heart of the South West LEP
10.55 - 11.10 Refreshment break
Launching the research findings: Prospects for Private Sector Jobs Growth
11.10 - 11.30 The prospects for private sector jobs growth in South West England at the current time. Nigel Jump, Chief Economist, Economy Module
11.30 - 12.00 Research findings on the prospects for private sector jobs growth. Shane Vallance, Evidence Manager, Economy Module
12.00 - 12.40 Issues and findings with relation to labour market and skills within the area of South West England. Chris Evans, Director, SLIM
12.40 - 12.50 Q&A / Discussion
12.50 - 1.00 Closing remarks. Chris Evans, Director, SLIM
1.00 - 2.00 Buffet lunch and networking
Albemarle Centre, Taunton(10am - 1pm with lunch and networking)
Book now to attend http://www.swo.org.uk/events/prospects-for-private-sector-growth/
The Coalition Government wants to increase private sector jobs growth, rebalance the economy and decentralise power to local communities. But faced with much reduced public spending, together with significant changes to the infrastructure that previously supported economic development and business growth, how feasible is this aim? What are the prospects for private sector jobs growth?
On Wednesday 2 November at the Albemarle Centre in Taunton the South West Observatory will launch a major piece of research recently compiled by the SWO Economy and Skills and Learning Modules. Key issues identified from the research will be presented alongside case study examples from the business community and South West LEPs.
Programme
9.30 - 10.00 Refreshments
10.00 - 10.10 Welcome Vinita Nawathe, Managing Director, SWO Core Unit
10.10 - 10.15 Introduction Chris Evans, Director, Skills and Learning Intelligence Module (SLIM)
10.15 - 10.35 Building globally-competitive local economies: the role of LEPs
Mike Spicer, Senior Policy Advisor, British Chambers of Commerce
10.35 - 10.55 Heart of the South West LEP: Priorities and evidence needs
Jeremy Filmer-Bennett, Interim Chief Executive, Heart of the South West LEP
10.55 - 11.10 Refreshment break
Launching the research findings: Prospects for Private Sector Jobs Growth
11.10 - 11.30 The prospects for private sector jobs growth in South West England at the current time. Nigel Jump, Chief Economist, Economy Module
11.30 - 12.00 Research findings on the prospects for private sector jobs growth. Shane Vallance, Evidence Manager, Economy Module
12.00 - 12.40 Issues and findings with relation to labour market and skills within the area of South West England. Chris Evans, Director, SLIM
12.40 - 12.50 Q&A / Discussion
12.50 - 1.00 Closing remarks. Chris Evans, Director, SLIM
1.00 - 2.00 Buffet lunch and networking
Thursday, 6 October 2011
LEPs: what’s new, what’s next?
Government is committed to LEPs. The areas of white space have rapidly diminished, there are now 38 LEPs. With only two areas left to either become or join a LEP. See this map http://www.bis.gov.uk/policies/economic-development/leps
Mission Creep
I have been challenged on what I meant by this in my last blog. For the avoidance of any doubt, I do think that each LEP will be different in approach, ambition and resources, and should be. I was referring to the possible increased scope of LEPs in what may be expected of them. For example the consultation around LEPs role in transport and possible DEFRA funding routes etc. Personally I can see positives and negatives with potential mission creep. The positives being LEPs will have a clearer and more defined role that is consistent across the country. This could also provide clearer 'hooks' for business to understand the role of LEPs, and to actually 'do' something especially in areas that don't have enterprise zones or regional growth fund, avoiding any whispers of LEPs being 'talking shops'. The negative side might be that LEPs actually become mini RDAs, one of the criticisms of RDAs is that they 'failed' because they took on / were given too large a remit. Often we hear BIS / DCLG talk about LEPs doing (only) 'three things well', with individual LEP priorities and enterprise zones (or Local Development Order), regional growth fund, memorandum of understanding with UKTI, LGRR and possible business rate retention, ongoing conversations with Business Link and other Departments utilising LEPs this seems increasingly unlikely.
In its simplest form are LEPs to be strategic or delivery bodies. Perhaps both and perhaps this will be different across the country.
Were are we
There are now 38 LEP which are all at different stages of development. LEPs are currently defining priorities (if they haven't already done so) and delivering against Start Up funding. I would assume all LEPs will have a Business plan, Trained Board, website (etc) by end march 2012. Obviously, some first round LEPs will also be doing a lot more than this.
LEPs working together
Secretary of State for Transport Philip Hammond MP announced his intention to "launch a consultation on how the Government can put in place a structure to fully devolve decisions and funding for local capital transport improvements" from April 2015 to a number of "local transport consortia," each made up of a number of LEPs and their constituent local authorities. I have heard that DfT would be looking to work with 20-25 consortia – some LEPs would need to join up.
Apparently SEM, Oxon, Gtr Camb Gtr Pboro, Northants, Herts etc are all in potential transport consortium?
There are LEP sector groups being established, some of which have already met. For example there is a Rural Network and a National Automotive group. Soon there will also be one on aerospace.
LEP network
The LEP network newsletter is compulsory reading http://www.keb.org.uk/keb-files/LEP_Network_Newsletter_September_2011.pdf
The Website is soon to launch http://www.lepnetwork.org.uk/ and they are already on Twitter @TheLEPNetwork
Innovative LEP / other related activity
York, North Yorkshire and East Riding LEP have joint forces with banks to develop Certificate in Business Growth (CBG) http://deck.ly/~uDFgB and http://www.insidermedia.com/insider/yorkshire/59771-lep-launches-banks-partnership-project/
Green Investment bank location bids have been submitted by both Leeds and Bristol.
Information here on the New Enterprise Allowance http://t.co/JTSjxF2a to assist the unemployed to start a business
The County Councils Network newsletter 'County Beacon' has produced a special edition focusing on LEPs http://www.countycouncilsnetwork.org.uk/Documents/CountyBeaconSeptember2011.pdf again essential reading.
Enterprise Zone information Packs link is here https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B5Vdxsrk2JSvZjU0NWZlMzYtMGFmNC00M2NmLTlkN2MtODA3MTI4NGIzYTM2&hl=en&pli=1
Using LDOs in Enterprise Zones information here https://docs.google.com/viewer?a=v&pid=explorer&chrome=true&srcid=0B5Vdxsrk2JSvYmQyNGQxZjEtNjI3Yy00ZGZiLTliMjQtYjY1NGQ0YWZhYWZk&hl=en
For a quick intro to the Leeds City Region LEP, watch their film at: http://t.co/dFVGDDxp (Leeds seem to be leading the way with social media usage)
Both Cumbria and Gloucestershire LEPs have met with the Tourism sector. Perhaps a LEP will decide to take on a Tourism pathfinder role?
I am interested to see how the skills agenda links to LEPs and the role of Employment and Skills Boards (private sector led).
What's next
Greg Clark is now the cities minister, perhaps the City region LEPs are track to get more powers? David Owen @CEOGlosFirst recently tweeted that Minister Greg Clarke said "LEPs should 'do deals' with Govt for transfer of powers".
DCLG will help with LDOs including areas without Enterprise zones. It will be interesting to see if the 40% of LEPs without an Enterprise Zone may try to recreate one. Interesting given that Entrepreneurs have called for a UK-wide enterprise zone http://t.co/XqCxQeJf
Growing places fund £500m has been announced. This "Growing Places" fund is to support infrastructure projects that will support local growth priorities, unlock development and create jobs.
Further details are expected to follow soon...
The Second round of LEP Capacity Fund is due to start being spent on 1st April. BIS are currently thinking about what criteria will be applied to enable bidding. Those LEPs which were not around for the first round will still need the first round criteria and well as any additions.
New Anglia LEP lands 'green pathfinder' low carbon role http://t.co/QvmZR7lJ as mentioned above other pathfinders are expected.
There are 14 LEPs on twitter follow my list for more information @LornaGibbons/leps
I understand that there will be a meeting of all Enterprise Zone areas. It would also be really useful is BIS could include maps of all EZs on their website (some EZ maps can already be found on LEP websites). The BIS LEP web pages are very informative so look here http://www.bis.gov.uk/policies/economic-development/leps if you haven't yet had the chance to.
The 24th October is the deadline for consultation on rates retention http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/resourcereviewtechnicalpapers
Will there be a two tier LEP approach? For Example areas without Enterprise Zones will be disadvantaged. Some LEPs may have a strategic Focus other Delivery. City regions may excel due to government policy of assisting growth in areas where it can have most impact.
Need to manage expectations around speed of delivery. Much has been made of the RGF money not yet coming through, but given the necessary due diligence this shouldn't be a surprise to anyone.
How to measure LEP success?
I am not sure you that you can satisfactorily or what this might add as you can't compare like for like. Also LEPs have different priorities, etc and no money! But if we assume this will happen at some point, a useful way to look at it could be 'have they delivered what they said they were going to do'?
Will LEPs be 'allowed' to fail, merge, grow...?
Should LEPs should have targets? Maybe if you give them money to deliver something!
It could be useful to identify priorities in common, sector groups, national areas in common.
Comparisons of the City regions would be interesting. Especially if the recognition for potential for cities to drive growth really takes off.
This was a bit rushed so sorry for twitter like sentences!
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