Leading figures from Greater Manchester meet FSB to discuss Northern Powerhouse agenda

Richard Jeffrey, Director Manchester Growth Hub; Cllr Sue Derbyshire, Leader Stockport Council; Simon Edmondson, FSB Regional Chair Manchester & North Cheshire; Mike Cherry, National Policy Chairman; and Joanna Sloane, HS2 Procurement Manager.

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Leading figures from across Greater Manchester met with key figures from the FSB last night (Tuesday) to discuss the Northern Powerhouse project and how the region’s small businesses can fulfil their potential.

The meeting was attended by various stakeholders, including representatives from Manchester’s Growth Hub, the LEP, HS2, the finance sector, local government, and the Skills Funding Agency.

The evening – held at Manchester’s Great John St Hotel – was chaired by the FSB’s National Policy Director, Mike Cherry, who chaired discussions on access to finance, business support, transport infrastructure, apprenticeships, procurement, as well as skills and training.

FSB regional Chairman for Manchester & North Cheshire, Simon Edmondson, also attended the dinner. He commented afterwards: “This event was a fantastic opportunity for the FSB to hear the views of so many key stakeholders in Greater Manchester – the true hub of the Northern Powerhouse – and how small businesses should fit in to the project.

“It was fascinating to hear from such a broad mix of people from the various sectors, who will all play crucial roles in delivering the Government’s vision for the North. While there were disagreements on certain issues there was, however, total agreement that all the various stakeholders need to be working more closely and communicating better with business to deliver the best possible outcome for the region.

He added: “There was also recognition that government investment in transport – and not just the major transport initiatives but ‘capillary’ routes as well – was the bedrock of a successful ‘Northern Powerhouse’. To this end, we now need firm commitment from government that this remains a priority.”

Mike Cherry, FSB National Policy Director, added: “Greater Manchester is currently a test bed for devolution and for small businesses to benefit from this there needs to be joined up thinking. We look forward to working further with stakeholders in the North to put small business needs at the top of the business agenda and their voices at the forefront of the debate.

“This event is one of many we are planning in the North of England to ensure that small businesses gain the support they need to grow and help guarantee the success of the Northern Powerhouse.”