Last year, Birmingham was named by Know Your Money as the best city in the UK to start a business. The research also suggested that the city has the largest active business population outside of the capital. So why is it such a great place for your next business venture, take a look below:
1. Impressive infrastructure
Over the past few years, significant redevelopment of the city’s central train station Birmingham New Street was completed giving improved accessibility and fast connections times from locations across the country. The airport has also undergone a £200 million expansion, which is welcoming more flights and more access to destinations across Europe and further afield. These improvements have given businesses the chance to utilise a wider pool of customers and clients. Plus, it connects the city with other major hubs including London, Edinburgh and Cardiff.
2. Access to talent
Accessing the best talent in any location can be challenging, especially when the pull of other cities appears to offer more career-wise. However, there has been significant improvement in growth and development. Plus, increased funding has made jobs more accessible and better paid for people looking to stay in the city and surrounding areas. More companies large and small are opting to set up here too, so the career choice for people of all ages has widened. The city is become a hub for entrepreneurs and continues to offer an alternative option to London life.
3. A hive of start-ups
The city has become a haven for people looking to start their own business, especially in the technological and digital sectors. In 2019, the council launched an initiative called the Business Growth Programme, which could see small to medium enterprises receive grants from £2,500 to £1 million to support growth and development. Schemes like this are bringing more opportunities to businesses and helping growth in the area.
However, with the prospect of so many startups trying to make themselves known in the big city, you need to know that you are going to stand out from the crowd.
4. Future developments
The city is enjoying a range of regeneration projects at the moment, and this makes it the perfect time to set up your business. A spot called Paradise is the city’s latest innovation, and it is said to bring commerce and culture together. The area will encompass beautiful high-quality buildings that bring together retail, office, hotel and leisure spaces. It will also have three large public squares where everyone can relax and unwind while surrounded by the buzz of the location. This spot also gives businesses the opportunity to base themselves at a central location. It is said to be one of the most sought after developments for emerging and established organisations.
Alongside all of these reasons to consider setting up shop in Birmingham, there are lots more, including the infamous HS2 rail development that could bring a wealth of opportunity right to your front door.