Welcome to our
Investment Prospectus
“As the Mayor of the East Midlands, I’m ambitious to maximise the potential for investment, business and development across the East Midlands. That means working collaboratively with partners to make us better connected, better funded and better prepared for a future of opportunity.
We have a fantastic range of irresistible investable opportunities across the region and this prospectus highlights many of them. These opportunities will be boosted by our vision for growth and long term plan for regional growth for the East Midlands, giving businesses and investors the certainty they need. The future of regional development is here – join us on our journey to make our region the best place in the country to live, work and learn.”
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Claire Ward, Mayor of the East Midlands
The EMCCA Digital Investment Prospectus contains a series of transformational opportunities across the East Midlands which harness the potential of global technological change and large-scale commercial development to meet future need.
They range from a global destination for clean energy technology backed by hundreds of millions of pounds in Government investment, to commercial developments built on industrial strengths and incentivised investment zones.
Built around strategic locations, the Investment Prospectus is also backed by the powers and resources of the East Midlands Combined County Authority and Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward – meaning these opportunities are supported by an organisation able to provide meaningful support and act at scale.
Our determination to drive significant growth across the East Midlands means we will work alongside government, planning authorities, landowners, developers and occupiers to progress technology advances, business growth, housing development and the infrastructure we need to maximise potential.
A new East Midlands Vision for Growth lies at the heart of our ambition, ensuring that there is a coherent and logical approach to our seven strategic opportunities which maximise the unique potential of the different parts of the East Midlands region.
Ours is a region irresistible to investment, with our portfolio of investment opportunities brought together in our vision for growth by a series of logical and coherent growth strategy areas – the Trent Arc, Supercluster, the Canal Corridor, Derwent Valley, Heartlands, Peaks and Dales, and The Loop – a hyperscale growth initiative.
Between them, these seven strategic opportunities encompass major city economies, significant residential and commercial development, supporting infrastructure, and a transformational investment in the next generation of fusion power from the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production (STEP) Programme. This is the future of regional development.
We will drive a significant increase in investment in the East Midlands by harnessing technology change, unlocking major development areas, and extending opportunity across our region through a clear vision for growth.
The EMCCA Digital Investment Prospectus: Superpower opportunities driving development and growth
Read our Vision for Growth
Building on strengths, powering up future potential
Two cities, large towns, major industries, technology strengths and a focal point for our energy future: the East Midlands is ready to become the UK’s superpower
Connected to markets, built on strengths in advanced manufacturing and energy, and ready to ramp-up investment and development.
The East Midlands sits at the heart of the UK, connected directly to domestic and international markets by strategic road networks, mainline rail, and the largest pure airfreight airport in the country. It’s a natural hub for making and moving.
Already the home of global businesses like Rolls-Royce aerospace and defence, Toyota UK car manufacturing and rail giant Alstom, the East Midlands is backed by the research power of three major universities, and supported by tourist attractions which contribute to a brilliant quality of life – the Peak District National Park, the National Forest and Sherwood Forest.
Alongside its industrial strengths and natural assets, it is becoming a major focal point for research and development of the energy technologies of the future: the East Midlands Hydrogen Cluster is the largest inland cluster in the UK, Rolls-Royce’s presence in Derby includes the small modular reactor and nuclear submarine business units, while the new Infinity Park Derby have been developed nearby on Infinity Park.
But we’re taking our energy strengths into the future and beyond, with the Government-backed proposal for a prototype STEP Fusion Nuclear Reactor at West Burton in Nottinghamshire. It’ll be the centrepiece of our Supercluster, where we’re planning a global technology destination which will power the UK’s future.
We’re renowned, too, as a national centre for life sciences thanks to our historic strengths in drug and medical technology development, while some of the UK’s largest food manufacturers are also based here.
The East Midlands offer for business is comprehensive and coherent, with incentivised investment zones at the East Midlands Freeport and the Infinity Park Investment Zone.
And now it’s backed by Mayor of the East Midlands Claire Ward and the East Midlands Combined County Authority: ready to drive growth by acting at scale.
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Investing in the East Midlands will undoubtedly yield significant returns on investment while contributing to the region’s growth and development.
About East Midlands
Combined County Authority
"GDP was £60.7 billion in 2021, accounting for 2.79% of UK GDP"
East Midlands Devolution
£9.84 billion
East Midlands Airport is the UK’s
most important
airport for dedicated cargo flights.
1,000 tonnes of cargo a day
£40bn of trade to and from the UK and £11bn of non-EU imports and exports each year
An overall population
2199900
2199900
Advanced
Manufacturing
Nuclear
Life Sciences
Thriving Sectors including:
Following the East Midlands devolution deal, agreed with Government ministers in 2022, Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, Derby and Nottingham will benefit from more control and more funding and now have a new combined authority covering their region – the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) that came into being at the end of February 2024.
The deal will improve the region’s economy and improve livelihoods for the region’s 2.2m residents. It will give the East Midlands the national voice it deserves, to champion major infrastructure and turn round historic under-investment in the East Midlands to benefit the regional economy, through a newly elected Mayor.
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A skilled working age population
1377900
1377900
with world-class universities and research centres providing a talent pipeline.
Our Specialisms include:
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Unlocking unmatched economic potential
Investing in the East Midlands offers many opportunities for businesses seeking to tap into a dynamic regional economy with significant growth potential. Here are some exciting projects that investors should consider:
STEP Fusion
Situated on the banks of the River Trent, West Burton was selected as the site for the ground-breaking Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production. Part of the Supercluster in our new East Midlands Vision for Growth, the development will produce a globally significant centre to generate highly skilled labour & innovative supply chains.
Find out more
East Midlands
Freeport
Located at the heart of the UK, East Midlands Freeport (EMF) is the country’s only inland freeport and a strategic hub for global trade. Home to East Midlands Airport, the UK’s busiest ‘pure’ cargo airport, EMF offers unmatched connectivity and logistical advantages, housing the East Midlands Intermodal Park and being on the M1 Motorway. With investment sites in our Trent Arc, EMF’s unique position and beneficial economic regulations stimulate innovation, encourage investment, and allow businesses to leverage their commercial and industrial strengths.
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SmartParc
SmartParc SEGRO is a state-of-the-art food manufacturing and distribution park providing food manufacturing facilities from start-up incubation units to large-scale manufacturing facilities, ranging from 50,000 sq ft to 400,000 sq ft. The campus will be home to a Food Manufacturing Technology Centre of Excellence.
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Nottingham
Regeneration
Nottingham City Council has launched a £4 billion development programme to revitalise and regenerate the city. This ambitious project aims to transform Nottingham into a vibrant and sustainable city by focusing on key areas such as infrastructure, housing, and green spaces. Part of our Trent Arc growth strategy area, the programme includes a wide range of initiatives, including the construction of new homes, the development of modern office spaces, improvements to transport and connectivity, and the creation of attractive public spaces. The aim is to become a leading destination for business and innovation, while also prioritising environmental sustainability and promoting community well-being.
East Midlands
Investment Zone
The East Midlands Investment Zone was formally announced in October 2024. The EMIZ will focus on the development of the Advanced Manufacturing and Green Industries sectors across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. Three sites have been designated to host a package of incentives including Business Rate Retention and Tax reliefs. These sites are Infinity Park Derby (part of our Trent Arc), Hartington Staveley (part of our Canal Corridor) and the Explore Park, Worksop. EMIZ is boosted by a £140m investment package over ten years which will improve innovation, create thousands of jobs and lever in private investment to the sectors and area.
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Markham Vale
A 200-acre site, sitting next to the M1 at Junction 29A, Markham Vale is already home to dozens of businesses.
The new Trade Park development is now available, with units ranging from 3,817 – 17,000 sq. ft.
Phase One of ARK will bring industrial space ranging from 17,050 – 39,950 sq. ft. by November 2025. Coming soon, the Nova scheme will see two units, comprising 242,000 and 491,000 sq. ft. of prime commercial space.
Peak Resort (Birchall Estate)
Consented on 283 acres (114 hectares) of reclaimed former opencast land, PEAK proposes the UK’s first purpose-built national park gateway ‘resort town’. Planning approvals totalling 168,000 sq. m. have been granted to facilitate extensive experiential retail, leisure and educational facilities, a wellness clinic, 2,850 car parking spaces and up to 2,000 hotel rooms and 250 holiday lodges. The development also has consent for its own energy park.
Phase One has officially broken ground and is scheduled to open to visitors in 2027/8/
Drakelow Development
Formerly home to three coal-fired power stations, the 282-hectare Drakelow site has approval for an employment park, over 2,000 homes, and a local centre with retail, leisure, and education facilities. This area is home to global businesses such as Alstom, JCB, Nestlé, Rolls-Royce, and Toyota UK. Permission also exists on the site for new power generation facilities alongside an existing solar farm.
Heart of Chesterfield
Chesterfield town centre is undergoing an exciting transformation, with major refurbishment across key sites. Investment opportunities span retail, leisure, office, health, and hospitality, alongside residential developments to enhance town centre living. Chesterfield Borough Council seeks developers to create vibrant spaces contributing to a thriving community. The £20 million Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield Project is improving public spaces, including a revamped marketplace and cultural offerings at Stephenson Memorial Hall. Developments such as Chesterfield Waterside, Northern Gateway, town centre living schemes, and the Chesterfield Station Masterplan will further shape a dynamic and sustainable town centre.
New Stanton Park
A prime 80-hectare of permitted employment landsite in the East Midlands between Derby and Nottingham (2.5 miles and a 10-minute drive from M1 J25), offers immediate development opportunities for manufacturing, logistics, and distribution (B1, B2, B8). With completed road and power infrastructure and significant occupier interest, including upcoming Starbucks and McDonald's, the park plans 2.2 million ft² of efficient space and a reinstated direct Midland Mainline rail connection with a large goods siding. Its strategic location boasts a wide labour catchment and good transport links.
Fairham Life
Fairham is a 606-acre site on the southern edge of Nottingham (part of our Trent Arc Growth Strategy Area), set to become the region’s prime commercial and residential destination. Boasting world-class connectivity, Fairham sits alongside the new £150 million A453 Remembrance Way that links directly to the M1.
The development includes more than £100 million of new infrastructure improvements as well as up to 3,000 new homes, a new neighbourhood centre with local shops, a health centre, community buildings and a new primary school. Up to one million square feet of employment opportunities will also be delivered at Fairham Business Park.
The Island Quarter, Nottingham
Located within our Trent Arc Growth Strategy Area, The Island Quarter presents a lucrative £1.4bn investment opportunity for those seeking to be a part of Nottingham’s new and unique city destination. This innovative 36-acre site has been masterfully designed around the 15-minute city concept, creating a hub for living, working, and socialising. At the heart of the development is a ‘green river,’ which is surrounded by more than 20 restaurants and bars, a 223-room IHG hotel, over 900 residential units, nearly 60,000 sq ft of office space, and 693 student accommodation beds.
With a range of amenities and a central location, The Island Quarter is set to become a highly sought-after destination, offering exceptional potential for investment returns.
Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre
Located in our Heartlands Growth Strategy Area, the Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre (ADMC) will be an international centre of excellence, providing access to the latest technologies and best practice in automated distribution. Its home will be at the £100m innovation and technology park site on Lowmoor Road, Sutton in Ashfield, opposite Sutton Parkway train station. The ADMC is ideally located because of its central location in the county, great transport links, and the strong manufacturing base in the area. It is also found close to Vision West Notts College technology campus, as well as the A38 and M1 and near major cities.
Derby – Heart of the City
Based in and around Derby’s award-winning, historic Cathedral Quarter, the Cultural Heart of the City scheme is the linchpin of a dramatic rejuvenation of Derby’s city centre with investment opportunities for office, leisure and residential development and a key opportunity within our Trent Arc growth strategy area. Derby has seen over £5bn invested into the city since 2005 from the public and private sectors and schemes completing in 2025 include the £35m Victorian Market Hall, creating a hub for F&B, pop-ups and makers and traders, and a £45m, 3500-capacity performance venue, funded by Derby City Council and to be operated by ASM Global.
University of Derby City Campus
Within our Trent Arc growth strategy area, The University of Derby continues to develop its campus and student accommodation and is developing its strategy for a greater presence in the city centre. A new Business School is currently under construction, set to open in 2025 and will be a catalyst for further development of the City Campus. This will include enterprise and business engagement activity, new and refurbished student accommodation, green space and additional facilities for students.
More Opportunities
Cinderhill Employment Park
175 acre Industrial and Logistics Park adjoining A38 with planning consent to accommodate up to 1.34 m sq. ft buildings ranging from 80,000 sq. ft to 520,000 sq. ft. with potential to deliver Large Footprint. The site and its development has been recognised in Local Plans with the aim to bring forward a strategic mixed use site including business and industrial development that can contribute to meeting employment requirements at the regional, subregional and local levels.
The site is located between the towns of Belper and Ripley adjacent to the A38 and north of Derby Road, Denby. The site is bound by the A38 dual carriageway which runs in a north/south direction along the western boundary with the established I & L corridor, 8 miles from Derby/ J28 Mansfield. Delivery Timescale: 1-7 years with buildings available from 2027.
Powering
the Future
East Midlands Hydrogen
East Midlands Hydrogen is pioneering the acceleration of hydrogen as a clean and sustainable energy source. It is an industry-led initiative that aims to attract further investment to the growing cluster of concentrated hydrogen demand, production and distribution infrastructure in the East Midlands.
It was launched in response to the growing need for alternative energy sources to mitigate climate change and reduce carbon emissions. With the UK government's commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, there is increasing demand for hydrogen as a versatile and environmentally friendly energy carrier.
£10 BILLION GROSS VALUE ADDED
110,000 JOBS CREATED OR PROTECTED
Development of a full hydrogen supply chain the East Midlands leads to:
The East Midlands' has a distinct advantage in hydrogen production. The region has a rich history of electricity generation, predominantly fuelled by coal, along the renowned 'Megawatt Valley'. As the energy landscape shifts from fossil fuels to renewables, the region finds itself uniquely positioned to repurpose its existing electricity transmission infrastructure for importing renewable energy, a strategic move that could catalyse hydrogen production.
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Cultural Riches, Scenic Beauty,
and Affordable Housing
Experience a high quality of life in Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, where vibrant cultural attractions, breathtaking countryside, and affordable housing options converge. Whether exploring cultural hotspots or enjoying the tranquility of the countryside, this is a diverse and enriching lifestyle.
Irresistible to investment!
Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire are renowned for their welcoming business environment, featuring competitive property prices, low operational costs, and enticing incentives for investors. These attributes make the region highly attractive for those seeking to participate in a thriving local economy with substantial growth prospects.
Companies in the East Midlands
Boots
Experian
Capital One
Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team
Toyota Manufacturing UK
Next PLC
Dunelm Group
Red Bull Racing Honda
Samworth Brothers
Greencore Group
Caterpillar UK
Thorntons
Dr. Martens
Fairline Yachts
Ping
Aston Martin Cognizant Formula One Team
Williams Racing
Walkers Crisps
Marston's Brewery
Carlsberg UK
British Steel
Rolls-Royce
Speedo
JCB
Raleigh
Haas F1 Team
Triumph Motorcycles
Paul Smith
Sports Direct
Travis Perkins
Experian
Next PLC
Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team
Red Bull Racing Honda
Greencore Group
Boots
Toyota Manufacturing UK
Capital One
Dunelm Group
Samworth Brothers
Peak Resort (Birchall Estate)
Consented on 283 acres (114 hectares) of reclaimed former opencast land, PEAK proposes the UK’s first purpose-built national park gateway ‘resort town’. Planning approvals totalling 168,000 sq. m. have been granted to facilitate extensive experiential retail, leisure and educational facilities, a wellness clinic, 2,850 car parking spaces and up to 2,000 hotel rooms and 250 holiday lodges. The development also has consent for its own energy park.
Phase One has officially broken ground and is scheduled to open to visitors in 2027/8/
Markham Vale
A 200-acre site, sitting next to the M1 at Junction 29A, Markham Vale is already home to dozens of businesses.
The new Trade Park development is now available, with units ranging from 3,817 – 17,000 sq. ft.
Phase One of ARK will bring industrial space ranging from 17,050 – 39,950 sq. ft. by November 2025. Coming soon, the Nova scheme will see two units, comprising 242,000 and 491,000 sq. ft. of prime commercial space.
Drakelow Development
Formerly home to three coal-fired power stations, the 282-hectare Drakelow site has approval for an employment park, over 2,000 homes, and a local centre with retail, leisure, and education facilities. This area is home to global businesses such as Alstom, JCB, Nestlé, Rolls-Royce, and Toyota UK. Permission also exists on the site for new power generation facilities alongside an existing solar farm.
Heart of Chesterfield
Chesterfield town centre is undergoing an exciting transformation, with major refurbishment across key sites.
Investment opportunities span retail, leisure, office, health, and hospitality, alongside residential developments to enhance town centre living. Chesterfield Borough Council seeks developers to create vibrant spaces contributing to a thriving community.
The £20 million Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield Project is improving public spaces, including a revamped marketplace and cultural offerings at Stephenson Memorial Hall.
Developments such as Chesterfield Waterside, Northern Gateway, town centre living schemes, and the Chesterfield Station Masterplan will further shape a dynamic and sustainable town centre
New Stanton Park
A prime 80-hectare of permitted employment landsite in the East Midlands between Derby and Nottingham (2.5 miles and a 10-minute drive from M1 J25), offers immediate development opportunities for manufacturing, logistics, and distribution (B1, B2, B8). With completed road and power infrastructure and significant occupier interest, including upcoming Starbucks and McDonald's, the park plans 2.2 million ft² of efficient space and a reinstated direct Midland Mainline rail connection with a large goods siding. Its strategic location boasts a wide labour catchment and good transport links.
Fairham Life
Fairham is a 606-acre site on the southern edge of Nottingham, set to become the region’s prime commercial and residential destination. Boasting world-class connectivity, Fairham sits alongside the new £150 million A453 Remembrance Way that links directly to the M1.
The development includes more than £100 million of new infrastructure improvements as well as up to 3,000 new homes, a new neighbourhood centre with local shops, a health centre, community buildings and a new primary school. Up to one million square feet of employment opportunities will also be delivered at Fairham Business Park.
The Island Quarter, Nottingham
The Island Quarter presents a lucrative £1.4bn investment opportunity for those seeking to be a part of Nottingham’s new and unique city destination. This innovative 36-acre site has been masterfully designed around the 15-minute city concept, creating a hub for living, working, and socialising. At the heart of the development is a ‘green river,’ which is surrounded by more than 20 restaurants and bars, a 223-room IHG hotel, over 900 residential units, nearly 60,000 sq ft of office space, and 693 student accommodation beds.
With a range of amenities and a central location, The Island Quarter is set to become a highly sought-after destination, offering exceptional potential for investment returns.
Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre
The project will deliver an Automated Distribution and Manufacturing Centre (ADMC) that will be an international centre of excellence, providing access to the latest technologies and best practice in automated distribution. Its home will be at the £100m innovation and technology park site on Lowmoor Road, Sutton in Ashfield, opposite Sutton Parkway train station. The ADMC is ideally located because of its central location in the county, great transport links, and the strong manufacturing base in the area. It is also found close to Vision West Notts College technology campus, as well as the A38 and M1 and near major cities.
Derby – Heart of the City
Based in and around Derby’s award-winning, historic Cathedral Quarter, the Cultural Heart of the City scheme is the linchpin of a dramatic rejuvenation of Derby’s city centre with investment opportunities for office, leisure and residential development. Derby has seen over £5bn invested into the city since 2005 from the public and private sectors and schemes completing in 2025 include the £35m Victorian Market Hall, creating a hub for F&B, pop-ups and makers and traders, and a £45m, 3500-capacity performance venue, funded by Derby City Council and to be operated by ASM Global.
University of Derby City Campus
The University of Derby continues to develop its campus and student accommodation and is developing its strategy for a greater presence in the city centre. A new Business School is currently under construction, set to open in 2025 and will be a catalyst for further development of the City Campus. This will include enterprise and business engagement activity, new and refurbished student accommodation, green space and additional facilities for students.
More Opportunities
Cinderhill Employment Park
175 acre Industrial and Logistics Park adjoining A38 with planning consent to accommodate up to 1.34 m sq. ft buildings ranging from 80,000 sq. ft to 520,000 sq. ft. with potential to deliver Large Footprint. The site and its development has been recognised in Local Plans with the aim to bring forward a strategic mixed use site including business and industrial development that can contribute to meeting employment requirements at the regional, subregional and local levels.
The site is located between the towns of Belper and Ripley adjacent to the A38 and north of Derby Road, Denby. The site is bound by the A38 dual carriageway which runs in a north/south direction along the western boundary with the established I & L corridor, 8 miles from Derby/ J28 Mansfield. Delivery Timescale: 1-7 years with buildings available from 2027.
Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, nestled in central England, has a vibrant business ecosystem with many renowned companies headquartered in it. The area has many strategic advantages, streamlined regulations, and diverse sectors ripe for investment. The region stands as a top choice for investors seeking growth and innovation opportunities.
- Capital One
- Rolls-Royce
- Sports Direct
- RAB Jackets
- Center Parcs UK
- Ideagen
- Games Workshop
- Experian
- Speedo
- Paul Smith
- Frasers Group
- Bowmer + Kirkland
- British Gypsum
- Pretty Polly Ltd
- Laing O’Rourke
- Boots
- Toyota Manufacturing UK
- Alstom
- Raleigh Cycles
- Greencore
- Auto Windscreens
- Swizzles Matlow
Company HQs in the
EMCCA Region
Contact Us
Invest Nottingham
Invest in Nottingham is a public-private partnership that attracts and supports business investment in Nottingham, UK. It offers a range of services to help businesses establish themselves, from advice on the local business environment to funding and site identification. The partnership focuses on key sectors like life sciences, digital technologies, and advanced manufacturing to promote innovation and growth.
Destination Chesterfield
Destination Chesterfield is a public/private partnership that promotes Chesterfield as a contemporary destination to invest, work, live and visit.
The partnership was established in 2010 and is funded through support from local businesses and Chesterfield Borough Council.
The partnership offers a range of support including assisting with investment and commercial property opportunities, raising the profile of the town as a place to visit and live and supporting businesses to grow.
Marketing Derby is the public-private partnership that promotes Derby in order to support and attract investment.
Backed by Derby City Council and over 350 local business Bondholders, who contribute to the positive development of Derby, the organisation has been awarded the Queen's Award for Enterprise in Innovation for its ground-breaking business model, leverage of private investment and the impact it has on place.
Marketing Derby
The East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) includes the constituent members Derbyshire County Council, Nottinghamshire County Council, Derby City Council and Nottingham City Council and covers the areas of both cities and both counties. If you're looking for information and help with business development, investment opportunities, or expanding your business in the UK, don't hesitate to get in touch with one of our partner organisations. They offer a range of services and support to help businesses thrive, from market research and financial advice to site selection and access to funding. Get in touch today to find out how they can help you achieve your business goals.
Established in 2015, the Midlands Engine partnership between government, businesses, and local stakeholders aims to drive economic growth and productivity in the region through collaboration, investment, and innovation, with a focus on areas such as transport, education, innovation, enterprise, and market access.
Midlands Engine
Invest in Derbyshire
Invest in Derbyshire is a public partnership with Derbyshire County Council and the Derbyshire district and borough councils. The partnership works together to deliver a welcoming, professional, and effective approach to attracting investment to Derbyshire. We want businesses to grow and prosper, we provide the resources needed to enable post-investment support.
Department for Business & Trade
The UK's Department for Business & Trade (D&T) helps businesses access financing and succeed in global markets. It connects UK businesses with potential investors and promotes the UK as a destination for foreign investment. The D&T aims to build a strong, outward-looking UK economy by supporting businesses to secure funding and succeed internationally.
Get in touch today at invest@eastmidsdevo.org.uk or contact our partners to find out how we can help you….
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