Local Government East (LGE) is pleased to announce the launch of Developing Our Local Economies – a project which could help to boost economic resilience and growth across the region. The project is led by LGE Talent Bank members Ken Cole and Rowena Ward, and follows on from the findings of a collaborative study undertaken by 14 councils through the Regional Climate Change Forum (RCCF) last year.
Read more about that study here.
What the Project Will Deliver
Working closely with a core group of local councils, the project will produce three practical electronic guides to support more effective engagement with local micro and small businesses:
- Barrier Checklist & Guidance: A guide identifying the common barriers local micro and small businesses face when engaging with councils—and best practice recommendations for removing them.
- Business Case Toolkit: A model economic and environmental business case for councils to promote local businesses through sustainable procurement—positioning it as an opportunity, not a cost.
- Marketing & Communication Guide: A practical guide for councils on how to find, engage with, and support local businesses, tailored to address sector-specific needs.
Strong Regional and National Backing
The project has already attracted support from high-profile stakeholders, including:
- The Government’s Small Business Commissioner
- World Commerce & Contracting (www.worldcc.com)
- Six local councils in the East of England region
What do our small businesses have to say?
A key element of the project is a detailed survey launching this autumn, aimed at capturing the views of local micro and small businesses across the Eastern region. The survey will explore experiences and challenges in working with councils and help shape future guidance.
Who Can Take Part?
- Micro businesses: Fewer than 10 employees and annual turnover under £2M
- Small businesses: Fewer than 50 employees and turnover under £10M
All survey responses will be anonymised.
Get Involved
- Councils interested in participating should contact TalentBank@localgoveasteng.gov.uk
- Micro or small businesses that would like to receive an invitation to the survey should contact Ken Cole, Talent Bank Project Manager (ken.cole@sps-consultancy.co.uk)