The Midlands is making history. In a landmark move, the Mayors of the West Midlands and East Midlands have signed an agreement to unite our regions for a shared vision of economic prosperity, innovation, and opportunity. This collaboration, formalised through the West and East Midlands Compact…paves the way for businesses, communities and us as individuals to do things differently.
Why This Matters
The East and West Midlands together form a £132.6 billion economic powerhouse, home to over 147,000 businesses and 5.2 million people. As the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution, the Midlands has always been a hub of innovation. Now, with both regions represented by elected mayors for the first time, this partnership makes a bold step towards reclaiming the Midlands’ status as an engine driving national economic and social growth.
Key Areas of Impact
This collaboration is more than policy. It’s about tangible results that will create jobs, attract investment, and improve lives. The Compact focuses on five key priorities:
- Strengthening Industry & Supply Chains – Enhancing sustainable industrial clusters and strategic supply chains to boost regional competitiveness.
- Attracting Investment & Jobs – A joint effort to increase foreign direct investment, creating high quality employment opportunities.
- Improving Transport & Infrastructure – Developing modern infrastructure to improve connectivity, drive economic growth, and support net-zero ambitions.
- Research & Intelligence – Strengthening knowledge sharing and economic research to keep the region at the forefront of innovation.
- Leadership & Governance – Ensuring both regions work together to amplify their influence and unlock greater funding and opportunities.
The Bigger Picture: What This Means for Social Enterprise
For social enterprises and purpose driven businesses, this commitment is about delivering change. With enhanced supply chains, increased investment, and improved transport links mean greater access to markets, funding, and talent. Collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for inclusive growth.
A Shared Vision for Growth
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker highlighted the Midlands’ historic role in economic transformation:
“The Midlands was the home of the industrial revolution…an innovative spark that led to seismic change across the globe. Now, we have a unique opportunity to work together, create jobs, drive growth, and improve transport links to help our region thrive.”
East Midlands Mayor Claire Ward emphasised the importance of collaboration:
“This Compact represents our commitment to harnessing shared strengths and tackling common challenges. By working together, we will attract investment, strengthen supply chains, and deliver the infrastructure needed for inclusive growth.”
A Future Ready Midlands
This partnership signals a new chapter for the Midlands. One of collaboration, investment, and prosperity. The time for action is now. As the region moves forward with a clear roadmap for economic development, businesses and communities have a unique opportunity to be part of a future defined by growth, resilience, and innovation.
The Midlands is adapting to change and leading from the front, with the purpose of building a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous region for generations to come.l enterprise growth.