2021 Manifesto FINAL DRAFT - Flipbook - Page 33
Economy
I WILL:
• Push the WMCA to use investment monies to support SMEs
and co-ops in starting up, surviving and thriving, especially in
the least well-off areas. This will include working with partners
towards a well-advertised one-stop shop for small business
support and advice, consolidating the confusing array of
provision currently available across the West Midlands. This will
offer specialist advisers to help small businesses to increase
exports, to write and evaluate business plans, and more.
• Champion more women, members of our BAME
communities and people from socio-economically
disadvantaged groups starting their own businesses by
highlighting successes, campaigning with other groups and
working in partnership with schools to inspire children.
• Working with our one-stop advice service and assertive
outreach, I will share success stories, support campaigns like
“She Means Business”, promote role models, encourage
mentors and provide targeted education and training.
• Aim to ensure that the skills budget is spent in areas and
communities where there is employment demand, and with
the objective of increasing productivity, in line with my economic
plan.
• Work in partnership with businesses and the public sector to
create more apprenticeships.
• Ensure that young people living in poverty have a fair
chance at a university education, by working with local
businesses to establish a dedicated internship programme.