New strategy sets out how the East Midlands will unlock investment, innovation, and inclusive growth

The East Midlands Investment Zone Strategy and Investment Plan was approved by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) Board today.

The strategy for the £160m, ten-year programme sets out targeted incentives and funding will unlock inclusive growth and innovation in the priority sectors of advanced manufacturing and clean energy industries.

The key activities in the strategy include:

• Developing the skills, innovation, businesses, and infrastructure to build on local strengths
• Championing the East Midlands Investment Zone for global investment for nuclear, vehicle propulsion, and advanced construction industries
• Providing business support services for SMEs in priority sectors to grow activity within the region
• Supporting the planning, coordination, and delivery of skills opportunities to open up pathways to high-quality jobs for school pupils, university students, existing workers, and those not currently in work
• Creating spaces for organisations to come together to collaborate on new technologies
• Accelerating delivery across the designated East Midlands Investment Zone sites

The East Midlands Investment Zone will bring at least £383 million of investment into the region and 4,000 high-quality jobs.

Three designated strategic sites – Infinity Park in Derby, Explore Park in Worksop, and Hartington Staveley in Chesterfield – serve as focal points for delivery and benefit from targeted tax and business rate retention incentives. However, the programme will offer a wide range of interventions and opportunities throughout the region.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, said: “The East Midlands Investment Zone represents a powerful statement of intent: that the East Midlands is ready to lead Britain’s journey into a cleaner, smarter industrial future. By nurturing local talent, championing global investment, and accelerating progress across our priority sectors, we are building a region that can thrive.

“Our vision for the East Midlands Investment Zone is rooted in inclusive growth. As Mayor, I’m ensuring that everyone, from school leavers to seasoned professionals and people who are not currently in work, can share in the success of a region that’s set to lead the world in clean energy industries and advanced manufacturing.”

The East Midlands Investment Zone Strategy and Investment Plan is launching after a successful first year for the programme. Successes include 15 ‘fast-start’ projects receiving grant-funding from EMCCA to partner businesses with universities to accelerate the development of profitable, low-emission technologies.