Business sectors
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Yorkshire Forward has identified 5 priority sectors which are key to the economic growth and development of our region, so we're supporting them via targeted programmes. The team which looks after these sectors works alongside 'champions' for each sector, liaising closely with industry to evaluate the business needs of each sector. They work with other teams at Yorkshire Forward and across industry to develop and evaluate strategies and support programmes which can speed up economic growth by encouraging increased productivity, innovation, inward investment, infrastructure development, knowledge transfer, competitiveness and skills development.
A range of other industries are considered significantly important to the economy of our region. These continue to benefit from support and investment through a wide variety of cross-sector initiatives.
Advanced Engineering and Materials
Advanced engineering and materials (AEM) is one of the region's largest activities, building on a long history in Yorkshire & Humber. AEM is now a priority sector at Yorkshire Forward, and we’re doing all we can to encourage innovation and growth.
Digital and new media
Bringing over £5bn into the region every year and employing over 123,000 people here, Yorkshire & Humber’s digital & new media sector is second only to London’s. It’s one of our priority sectors.
Environmental technologies
Our region is particularly ambitious about reducing its carbon footprint and investing in renewable resources. We’ve made environmental technologies a priority for our region—working towards a better future for us all.
Food and drink: a priority sector
Yorkshire & Humber is the UK’s largest food-producing region—home to more than 15,000 food & drink companies, employing 18% of the workforce. Find out how we’re prioritising this sector.
Healthcare technologies
Yorkshire & Humber has an outstanding global reputation in healthcare technologies, especially pharmaceuticals and medical devices. We’ve made it a priority sector, and are investing in innovation and competitiveness for an even stronger future.
Become more competitive through logistics
Logistics are an increasingly important aspect of business. Finding efficiencies in this area can make all the difference to competitiveness and profitability.
Cross-sector and diverse initiatives
Besides our work across our 5 priority sectors, there are a number of other sectors which are also significantly important to the future of our region's economy, and which also benefit from Yorkshire Forward's support.
Manufacturing
Yorkshire Forward has produced the region’s strategy for manufacturing, outlining the actions which will help Yorkshire & Humber’s manufacturing sector to grow and win international recognition.
Business Funding
Looking to start grow or improve a business? See what funding options could be available for you.
News
Find out about the latest news about Yorkshire Forward and the region.
The labour market
Find out what's going on in the region's job market, including where there are losses and gains.
