There are many reasons why it is in the interests of a local authority and local businesses to build mutual understanding and effective working relationships. Private sector businesses play a fundamental role in delivering economic and social well-being to citizens, whilst local authorities and other agencies have the ability both to promote and regulate private sector activity. It is essential that the public and private sectors work together in order to foster healthy and competitive businesses, as well as ensure that public sector interventions are fully aware of private sector needs.
Most local authorities have established local business forums which enables local businesses to raise any issues and concerns directly with local authority members and officers. They also offer the opportunity to input into the policy and decision making process of the local authority and to network with other businesses in their areas.
The WLGA has developed a working relationship with both the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) and have signed a joint Memorandum of Understanding with both organisations that forms the basis of the joint working.
At the national level the Welsh Assembly Government has established an integrated business support service in the form of the Flexible Support for Business (FS4B) service which consists of the three following elements:
• Access to information, advice and support via a gateway that includes a single website, national phone number and face-to-face engagement through a network of local centres.
• Relationship Managers that support businesses with growth potential by diagnosing development needs and sourcing a package of relevant tailored support.
• Funding and Specialist Support: the Single Investment Fund (SIF) is the unified service for a package of financial and specialist support from the Welsh Assembly Government.
At the local level local authorities are key players in the network of local centres and deliver many business support functions, such as:
• Business grants
• Business advice and mentoring
• Development and management of sites and premises
• Marketing for inward investment and tourism
In the West Wales and the Valleys Convergence area the local authorities administer and manage the Local Investment Fund (LIF) which is a European Funded initiative that offers support of up to £5,000 for local businesses.
Related links and publications
• Flexible Support for Business
• Local Investment Fund
For more information contact: Lowri Gwilym