Northern business leaders are committed to helping growth through the devolution process

A coalition of north-facing businesses has pledged to help the government and metro mayors improve regional economic growth.

True North comprises over 250 organizations across the region, a significant proportion of which are private and owner-managed companies, delivering commercial success while having a social impact in local communities.

Data compiled by the network indicates that these “North Stars” are growing at an average rate of 8.5% year-on-year, exceeding the national average.

The network seeks to meet with leaders involved in the devolution process to share good practice examples of public-private partnerships, open opportunities for collaboration and encourage greater levels of investment in Northern towns and cities.

He is currently working in partnership with the non-profit open data ecosystem Open Innovations to help identify practical solutions that would support unlocking the true potential of the Nordic economy.

The True North Network is chaired by Robert White, CEO of North West law firm Brabners, Prof Maggie O’Carroll, CEO of The Women’s Organization based in Liverpool and Manchester, and Michael Hayman, co-founder and chairman of PR firm London. Seven Hills.

Writing to leaders, the co-chairs said: “We have been encouraged by the government’s focus on accelerating the devolution of power from central government to the regions and the growing recognition that growth for the whole of the UK is not possible through the overly centralized model of the past.

“What has been missing from most of the conversation is the recognition that economic growth and prosperity cannot be driven by the public sector alone – especially in the absence of abundant public money. The purpose-driven business community is critical to the region’s success in unlocking the pressing need for greater productivity and prosperity in the North, and is ready to play its part in designing and delivering the way forward.

“These businesses have the tools to unlock economic growth, are focused on the long term and we believe they can help drive prosperity across the region by stimulating investment and encouraging greater collaboration with regional and central government. However, in the past they have felt unheard, ignored, or succeeded without a voice.

“True North aims to be a source of fresh thinking, a fresh perspective on key priorities for growth, innovation and sustainability and a new delivery model for a fairer North.

“As central government and the regions work together on their growth plans, we hope they will engage with us and our network of like-minded leaders, who share the same goal of delivering greater growth and prosperity for the North and the entire Kingdom. .”