While many people think that London is the centre of the business world in the United Kingdom, the Midlands region could be set to change the narrative.
Investors are increasingly looking north in many industries rather than ploughing their cash into a city which is increasingly looking oversaturated.
This trend is excellent news for a region where small and independent businesses face significant pressure to compete with their counterparts in the English capital.
Many people in the Midlands are eager to support local businesses, making the region the ideal place for entrepreneurs to establish strong roots.
With that in mind, read on as we assess how the Midlands is on course to become on the UK’s hottest business hubs over the next few years.
Technology is powering an iGaming boom
Online gambling has developed into one of the UK’s most lucrative sectors since the turn of the century due to the country’s favourable regulatory landscape.
As evidenced by the number of people who use betpanda online blackjack tips, UK citizens love indulging their passion for wagering on reputable casino platforms.
The Midlands is a hotbed for gambling operators, with many of the digital-savvy population using iGaming sites as their primary form of entertainment.
Birmingham, Nottingham and Leicester are among the cities which have invested heavily in 5G Wi-Fi connectivity, making it easy for casino players to stay connected to their favourite games.
Leamington Spa is an unlikely tech centre
While Leamington Spa may seem likely an unlikely spot for digital companies to operate, the rural town boasts a long history of innovation.
Video game development is particularly prevalent, with around one in every 50 people in Leamington working for a company in this sector.
Blitz Games and Codemasters are among the companies who have made a massive impact in game development, and many of their staff have gone on to set up their own studios.
Codemasters’s global success allowed them to open a second studio in the heart of Birmingham city centre, further cementing their status as a Midlands success story.
Universities are powering future business growth
A five-year programme led by Birmingham City University is set to have a massive impact on creative and digital industries in the region.
A £250,000 funding pot has been earmarked for freelancers and small companies, while the university will also offer academic mentorship and other support.
The Arts and Humanities Research Council has funded the scheme, which focuses primarily on gaming, immersive experiences, enabling tech and visual arts.
Local authorities have estimated that the scheme will create around 1,500 new jobs by 2030, further enhancing the Midlands’ status as a hotbed for business.
British Business Bank backs the Midlands
The British Business Bank recently committed £2.6bn of capital to help drive the growth of smaller businesses in regions across the UK, including the Midlands.
A separate £4bn fund will also be invested in eight key Industrial Strategy sectors, most of which are well-represented in the region.
Digital and technologies, creative industries and advanced manufacturing are among the sectors which will benefit massively across the Midlands.
The investments are designed to address economic imbalances across the UK and will offer assistance to people from previously underrepresented backgrounds.
By Michael Gage
