A NEW vision to boost business productivity and innovation across our region has been launched.

The CPI’s National Biologics Manufacturing Centre, in Darlington, hosted the launch of the Tees Valley Local Action Plan co-created by Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency, and the Combined Authority.

Through its partnerships with local stakeholders, Innovate UK has invested £52m into innovation projects in Tees Valley over the past five years, which is helping to de-risk innovation and secure private investment, boost competitiveness, and create jobs.

Now, through its new plan with TVCA, it is aiming to build on this work and capitalise on the region’s strengths in low carbon technologies, digital, biosciences and manufacturing.

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Sophie Walton, Tees Valley Business Board member for Science, Innovation & Technology, said: “By building on our strengths, this action plan can help us drive sustainable and inclusive growth. This initiative goes beyond just supporting sectors – it will actively engage with local businesses, and work closely to align with their needs, desires, and ambitions.

“Together, we are laying the foundation for a thriving, innovative future that benefits everyone in the Tees Valley – and having this collaborative plan is a key part of that.”

The plan’s goals include a strengthening of the digital economy, and expansion of the role of biosciences in tackling climate change; generating new forms of clean energy, using more efficient materials and reducing plastic waste.

There are three key areas:

Strategic Partnerships to ensure the Tees Valley has all the necessary relationships in place to help grow the local economy.

Innovation Support that is targeted and complements other business support services offered by local partners.

Communication and promotion to ensure local business leaders are aware of the opportunities available to them.