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The recent Budget supports the eight ‘growth-driving’ sectors identified in the Industrial Strategy, many of which converge in Hertfordshire. We welcome this support, alongside new skills initiatives, business support funding and the £240 million allocated to help people return to work. Addressing the skills divide and helping those out of work due to mental or physical ill health will be the focus of our Inclusion Webinar taking place on 29 January 2025. Watch this space!
In this month’s Economy Report we take a closer look at what is driving the rise in Hertfordshire’s enterprise population – the first increase we have seen in the last four years. Our quarterly report next month will provide a comprehensive overview of datasets relating to skills and employment; enterprise and business growth; sectors and innovation.
It was wonderful to engage with so many early-stage businesses at the “Entrepreneurs are Essential for Society event at Knebworth Barns”. We continue to seek diverse views, as we develop the Economic Strategy, including young people aged 16 + in schools and colleges. There are still many ways you and your organisation can get involved.
Next year marks the 10th anniversary of Hertfordshire Growth Hub – our business support flagship service. I look forward to welcoming you to "All the Help You Can Get Business Support Show" on 6 December when we will fly the flag for enterprise and shine a spotlight on a decade of delivery.
Adrian Hawkins, OBE, Chair, Hertfordshire Futures
Business and Enterprise
Hertfordshire Growth Hub gears up for 10th anniversary
Hertfordshire Futures’ flagship business support service will celebrate 10 years in 2025. There will be a packed programme of activity all designed to help enterprise and innovation grow.
Join us at ‘All the Help You Can Get’ Business Exhibition and Workshops Event on 6 December to find out more.
Create Growth programme is open for new applications
The Create Growth Programme is now open for new applications, with the next cohort due to start in January.
Twenty businesses have successfully completed the programme so far, including HR consultants, florists and merchandising companies, all looking to grow their presence within this growing sector.
Skills
1,700 students benefit from 'real-life' work experience
Over 1,700 secondary school students have experienced the real life workings of a Hertfordshire workplace, thanks to a pilot programme delivered locally over the past academic year.
The programme aims to offset the impact on of hybrid and remote working on young people as they prepare to enter employment.
Generating strength across the county
The Generation careers fairs continue to go from strength to strength connecting thousands of young people to the exciting opportunities on their doorstep. With employers such as Elstree Studios showcasing careers in film and TV at Generation Hertsmere, students can get valuable insights into their future pathways.
Next up: Generation Bishop’s Stortford on 4 December.
Sectors and Investment
Clean Growth
Over the past two years Hertfordshire Futures has been working in partnership to deliver the actions identified in its Clean Growth Strategy to deliver a greener Hertfordshire. This has two broad aims:
- Growing and attracting low carbon businesses
- Supporting existing businesses, communities and places as they transition to Net Zero
Invest Hertfordshire to return to UKREiiF 2025
Following the official launch of the inward investment service at the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF), we will be back in 2025 with an expanded line-up, a prime location, and a host of visionary speakers.
We are now seeking partners to join us as we bring key sites to market.
Destination, Hertfordshire
Visit Herts has launched the 'Destination Management Plan' that sets out a roadmap to help grow and shape the visitor economy over the next five years.
Herts IQ supports East Hemel early development
The Crown Estate is starting to develop proposals for land at East Hemel (part of Hemel Garden Communities) and is shaping plans through collaboration and discussions within the local community.
News
Gathering insights
Young companies were invited to have their early input into the future of the local economy at an event organised by biz4Biz.
This was the latest in a series of events, and workshops being held across the county to seek diverse viewpoints to ensure the strategy is representative.
Find out how you can get involved.
Supporting good causes
Surplus office supplies belonging to Hertfordshire Futures have gone on to support a number of good causes including raising money for a local charity helping families in need.
Old office furniture was donated through JPA Workspaces to the Sele School in Hertford to be used around the school, including its new sixth form common room. Meeting room furniture was also donated to Community Alliance which aims to empower residents in Broxbourne and East Herts through a range of local initiatives.
