Enterprising Cumbria celebrates first birthday and a year of economic ambition

Enterprising Cumbria, the county’s new delivery body for economic growth, is celebrating its first birthday.

Launched in July 2024 to continue the work of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, the
organisation now leads on business support, skills development and investment across both Cumberland Council and Westmorland and Furness Council areas. Its core priorities are to help businesses grow, strengthen the local workforce, and secure long-term investment through clean growth and innovation.

In its first year, the organisation has built strong foundations.

Isobel Brown, Programme Director, said, “Turning one is the perfect moment to take stock. We’ve launched a bold new economic strategy, secured significant funding, and supported hundreds of businesses and individuals across Cumbria. We’re proud of the progress we’ve made.”

One of the year’s key milestones was the launch of the Going for Growth Economic Strategy, developed in partnership with over 400 residents, businesses and stakeholders. The strategy sets out a clear direction for Cumbria’s future, with priorities including clean growth, place-based investment and workforce development.

Enterprising Cumbria has already delivered close to £6 million in local investment through skills, net zero and business support programmes, with a further £10 million Connect to Work programme launching in 2026 to support people into secure employment.

Business support has also ramped up through the Cumbria Accelerator programme, which
offers fully funded, expert-led advice to help start-ups and SMEs grow. More than 700
businesses accessed the service last year, with over 270 entrepreneurs helped to launch new ventures and nearly £50,000 awarded in start-up grants.

Paul Foster, Head of Programmes, said, “We’re really proud to have supported so many
businesses already through Cumbria Accelerator. The programme is back again this year and continues to offer practical, fully funded support to help people take real steps forward. Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow, it’s here to help unlock potential and move your business forward with confidence.”

Meanwhile, the organisation’s coordination of Skills Bootcamps in the area has supported over 1,000 learners to gain new skills, change career direction or grow their own businesses.

Kelly McAlone, Skills Bootcamp Programme Lead, said, “It’s been amazing to see how many people have benefitted already, and how many more we’re now able to support.

“There are so many inspiring success stories, including learners who have started new
businesses, grown existing ones or moved into new career opportunities.

“We have supported a wide range of people, from the self-employed and those currently
employed, to individuals who were unemployed, helping them gain new skills and secure
employment.

“I’m genuinely excited for another year of Skills Bootcamps. It’s been amazing to see how much we’ve grown.”

As part of its work to improve career opportunities for young people, the Cumbria Careers Hub has also supported schools, colleges, parents and employers across the region over the past year.

Cath Dutton, Strategic Careers Hub Manager, added, “We’re proud to be helping young people across Cumbria build the confidence, skills and ambition to shape their own futures. This year alone, we’ve supported 54 institutions, delivered training to over 150 teachers and created new tools for parents and employers to get involved too.

“It’s all about working together to give every young person the chance to thrive in a career that’s right for them.”

Enterprising Cumbria has also advanced the county’s role in clean energy and industrial
decarbonisation. The team is working with government and industry to progress opportunities at Pioneer Park in Moorside, which has been identified as a potential clean energy development site. Cumbria has the largest pipeline of net zero investment in the North West, currently valued at £8.7 billion as part of the North West Clean Power Plan. Enterprising Cumbria also hosted the Net Zero North West Board in Barrow, giving regional attention to local hydrogen and decarbonisation projects.

Jennie Stein, Head of Net Zero, said, “After joining the team in the autumn, I can say I’m really proud of what Enterprising Cumbria has achieved in the first year. I’m proud that Net Zero is hardwired into Cumbria’s economic vision, with the strategy framing Net Zero not as a siloed environmental goal, but as a cross-cutting enabler of new industries, inclusive prosperity, and rural resilience.”

Isobel Brown added, “Looking ahead, the team will continue to deliver on its commitments
through partnership working, with a focus on inclusive, sustainable growth.

“We’re just getting started. We’re focused on building a thriving Cumbria that gives people and businesses the confidence and support to succeed.”