The West Midlands is entering a bold new era of growth, with a £17 billion plan that promises 100,000 new jobs, better transport and stronger communities. At the heart of this vision? The people and places powering the social economy.
How the West Midlands Growth Plan Champions Jobs, Innovation & Inclusive Prosperity
This week, West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker unveiled a bold and ambitious Growth Plan that aims to create more than £17 billion in economic potential, improve living standards and put £8,600 back in the pockets of working people across the region. It’s a major turning point not only for industry giants and infrastructure but for everyday people, social businesses and purpose led organisations striving to create real change.
At iSE, we believe in the ability of the social economy. Where business success is measured by social impact, community wellbeing and inclusive opportunity. That’s why we welcome this landmark plan as a chance to reimagine economic growth through the lens of equity and empowerment.
The Numbers Behind the Vision
The West Midlands Growth Plan sets out to:
- Create 100,000 good jobs in high-growth sectors
- Build 120,000 new homes
- Deliver £2.4 billion in transport improvements
- Advance progress toward net zero goals
- Grow the economy by £17 billion in the next decade
It also prioritises getting tens of thousands of residents into work, with targeted support for the foundational economy from shopkeepers and carers to bus drivers, creatives and small business owners.
But perhaps most exciting is how the plan aligns with the work we champion every day: discovering local potential, investing in talent and building inclusive ecosystems that work for everyone.
Social Value Is Economic Value
With a renewed focus on health and med tech, clean energy, digital and creative industries and next-gen professional services, the plan positions the region as a future facing hub for innovation. It’s more than just the big names…it’s about empowering those creating change at the grassroots level.
Organisations like Jericho Foundation, and her entities The Wood Shack, and The Reusers. All part of a wider social impact ecosystem, demonstrating what’s possible when businesses are built not just for profit, but for people and for planet.
These changemakers are proving that social enterprises are not just part of the economy but they are vital to its future. That’s the energy we can bring to this next decade of growth.
A Call to Collaborate, Build and Belong
At iSE, we’re proud to support social enterprises, entrepreneurs and community businesses that embody this spirit of innovation with impact. We know that for the West Midlands to thrive, everyone must have a seat at the table, especially organisations from the voluntary sector.
If you’re doing amazing work in your community then we want to tell your story.
Together with our partners like WMCA, HIWM, Birmingham City Council, whose leadership and investment make building a fairer, greener and more inclusive West Midlands possible for all.
Read the full WMCA Growth Plan here: WMCA Growth Plan 2025
Get in touch to collaborate, or to be featured in our amplification series. Highlighting the trailblazers, social innovators driving change across the region. Email us at: info@i-se.co.uk
And don’t forget subscribe to our brand new YouTube channel as we celebrate Jericho’s story and maybe even yours!
YouTube: iSE – https://www.youtube.com/@isocialenterprise