A fresh initiative is underway to connect British businesses with global markets, as UK diplomats embark on a nationwide tour aimed at strengthening regional ties and promoting economic growth. Under the Government’s Plan for Change, ambassadors and high commissioners are travelling across the UK to meet with local leaders and entrepreneurs, identifying opportunities for trade and investment. This marks the first time such a diplomatic roadshow has taken place.

The roadshow, which began in June and will continue into autumn, focuses on enhancing relationships between UK regions and key international trade partners. The initiative aligns with the Government’s industrial strategy and includes sectors such as clean energy, life sciences, defence, and digital tech. Senior diplomats have been tasked with harnessing regional expertise to unlock growth potential for UK businesses abroad.

The roadshow has already made significant stops in areas like South Yorkshire, Greater Manchester, and South Wales, where diplomats are engaging with local businesses, research institutions, and government bodies. Key visits have included meetings with steel manufacturers, universities, and technology companies, aimed at fostering new partnerships and attracting foreign investment.

This effort underscores the Government’s commitment to positioning the UK as a global leader in business and innovation, with a particular focus on regions outside London.

A dispute has arisen over the Business Improvement District (BID) levy in Spalding, with a group of business owners refusing to pay the charge. The BID, which was created following a local vote in July 2024, aims to fund town centre improvements and increase foot traffic. However, some businesses argue the vote was flawed due to missing ballots and have vowed not to pay the levy.

The levy is calculated based on a business’s rateable value, meaning larger businesses contribute more. Despite the backlash, South Holland District Council has defended the process, asserting the vote was legally conducted and in line with national guidelines.

Small business owners, including photographer Julian Wheeler and beautician Macie Harman, are among those opposing the BID. While Wheeler has expressed his intent to challenge the legality of the vote, Harman has opted to pay the levy to avoid further costs, but still plans to fight the BID’s validity.

The council has maintained that the ballot and levy collection process were fair and properly managed, with strict oversight from an electoral services provider and the returning officer. Recovery actions have been handled in accordance with national regulations, with the council standing firm on the legitimacy of the levy.

A new funding initiative has been launched in Leeds to support innovation and business growth, backed by the Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The programme, administered by Leeds City Council, will provide grants between £25,000 and £50,000 to support local organisations running knowledge-sharing projects.

The aim is to help businesses, entrepreneurs, and innovators across Leeds maximise their potential through tailored business guidance, mentoring, and training. The grants will be available for both innovation-focused projects, such as those in AI and technology, and general business support projects targeting all sectors.

The funding is designed to benefit both established businesses and those in the early stages, as well as aspiring entrepreneurs. The intention is to equip participants with skills and networks to succeed in the competitive digital and tech industries.

The long-term goal of the programme is to foster innovation that will contribute to a healthier, greener, and more inclusive city. It also aims to enhance Leeds’ appeal to external investors by highlighting the city’s strengths in innovation.

Applications are open until July 27, with projects required to be completed by March 31 of the following year. The funding programme is expected to create opportunities, drive growth, and improve investor readiness for businesses across the region.

York is seeing an influx of new office space providers as the city continues to attract entrepreneurs, freelancers, and remote workers. Among the recent additions is Patch York, which opened six months ago in the Bonding Warehouse building in Skeldergate. The flexible workspace is the fifth location in a national chain, marking its first northern England venture.

Patch York offers a range of workspaces, including hot-desking, private offices, and meeting rooms. It currently accommodates 250 members, with plans to expand by adding 50 more spaces when the first-floor area is converted later this year. Most members have transitioned from home offices rather than relocating from other businesses, with many working in creative, tech, or eco industries.

The City of York Council has played a key role in supporting the success of new workspaces like Patch. Their Economic Growth Team has provided crucial advice during the planning phase and connected businesses with potential clients, local suppliers, and partners. The council continues to support ongoing operations by facilitating networking opportunities and local events.

Patch is not alone in contributing to York’s growing appeal as a hub for remote workers and small businesses. Wizu Workspaces is also set to open at East Coast House later this summer, offering private offices, coworking spaces, and meeting facilities for businesses of various sizes.

York’s vibrant culture and strong transport links make it an attractive destination for remote workers, with local efforts driving the creation of workspaces that encourage collaboration and innovation.