Powys businesses have an appetite to grow, says council leader
Powys businesses have an appetite to grow, says council leader
Powys businesses have a real appetite to grow, the leader of the county council told a room packed with successful companies and charity organisations.
Opening the Powys Business Awards ceremony in Brecon, Councillor Jake Berriman said: “It’s a pleasure to be surrounded by people who are making things happen in Powys. This room is full of ideas, ambition and determination.
“Tonight, we celebrate the people who turn those ideas into successful businesses, create opportunities for others and put Powys on the map.”
He said the council values the contribution made by successful businesses towards creating local jobs, supporting local suppliers and making stronger communities.
He highlighted a range of programmes designed to support Powys businesses, saying there is much to look forward to in the county.
Cllr Berriman said the launch of the council’s GROW Powys Economic Strategy set out an ambition for better jobs, thriving businesses and a county where people can see a future for themselves.
“There is real appetite to grow,” he added. “Our latest Business Growth Grant scheme attracted more than 150 applications. Through the Local Growth Fund, £509,000 has been allocated to 37 businesses across 15 Powys towns and communities, subject to funding agreements.
“That fund is financed by the UK Government and managed in Wales by the Welsh Government. It will help turn business plans into practical investment across six of our seven priority growth sectors.”
He went on to mention the Pride in Place and Transforming Towns schemes which are investing in welcoming town centres and community spaces that give people more reasons to visit, stay and spend locally.
The Communities for Work Plus scheme is helping residents build skills and confidence to take their next steps into employment and the Marches Forward Partnership joins forces with neighbouring councils to pursue investment and opportunities for our rural economies.
Next year, the Tour de France’s Welsh stage will start in Welshpool, providing an opportunity to showcase Powys to the world, welcome new customers and give visitors an experience they will want to repeat, he said.
“Looking further ahead, our plans for CymruTech Park in Newtown aim to give businesses room to grow, with modern premises and a proposed advanced manufacturing centre supporting innovation and skilled employment,” he added.
“There is much to look forward to and the talent in this room gives us every reason to be ambitious. We know success takes hard work, difficult decisions and the courage to keep going. Tonight, take a moment to enjoy what you have achieved.”
He thanked Mid Wales Manufacturing Group for organising the awards which showcase the best and diversity of Powys businesses.
Powys County Council sponsors the overall Powys Business of the Year which was this year won by Welshpool manufacturer Morland.
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