When deciding where to locate or grow your
advanced manufacturing operations, County
Durham has a lot to offer.
The county plays a significant part in supporting and providing the right
conditions for advanced manufacturing businesses to thrive.
As the largest economy in the North East, County Durham is a prominent contributor to the area’s standing as the leading UK region for advanced manufacturing foreign direct investment in per capita. Almost 69,000 people are employed (6% of its total workforce) generating £8.0bn GVA turnover with growing exports (increased by 12% from £9.2bn to £10.3bn between 2014 and 2019).
In and around County Durham, there are more than 52,000 STEM students – 50% of its student population with nearly 10,000 studying engineering and technology subjects, 8.7% of its student population – the highest proportion of any UK region.
More than 140 undergraduate and postgraduate engineering-related courses are available across the region’s five universities, while an additional 11 colleges offer over 300 advanced manufacturing-related courses.
If you are thinking about moving your business to County Durham, give us a call on 03000 261261.
Business incentives and support for the sector
Business Durham offers bespoke one-to-one assistance and key support programmes such as Finance Durham and the Durham Business Growth programme. We can also signpost businesses to support networks in the surrounding ecosystem. Additional sources of funding are available through various organisations and support programmes including NBSL, RTC North, BEEP, NE BIC and Business Boost.
Research and innovation
North East England has developed an unequalled reputation for production but now it’s becoming recognised as a location for innovation. Much of this innovation is derived from fruitful partnerships between advanced manufacturing companies, universities and research institutions, which has helped the industry maintain an edge over competitors.
Cost savings to your business
County Durham offers significant labour and pr