A Growing Mid Wales Trade Delegation and exhibition in association with Powys and Ceredigion County Councils has taken place at the National Assembly for Wales, sponsored by Mid Wales AM, Russell George.
The event, co-sponsored by Mr George (Montgomeryshire), Kirsty Williams AM (Brecon & Radnorshire) and Elin Jones AM (Ceredigion) sought to showcase the produce and services from businesses from across Powys and Ceredigion and promote the potential for a Mid Wales Growth Deal.
The Welsh Government Minister for Economy & Infrastructure, Ken Skates AM, spoke at the event, and there were also contributions from the Leaders of both local authorities, Cllr. Harris (Powys) and Cllr. ap Gwynn (Ceredigion).
Speaking after the event, the lead sponsor of the event, Russell George said:
“I was pleased to co-sponsor this event and welcome colleagues from both Powys and Ceredigion County Councils as well as businesses from across both counties which have successfully showcased the fantastic produce and services from businesses across Mid Wales.
"The event was a great opportunity for the Minister for Economy, Ken Skates, and decision makers from across Welsh Government to see the many outstanding businesses that operate in Mid Wales, and I hope that this event will help to progress the case for a Mid Wales Growth Deal with the Welsh and UK Governments."
Organised by the Growing Mid Wales Partnership, the event, on Thursday 31st January, showcased the region’s industries including Powys-built hydrogen powered cars, world class research facilities at Aberystwyth, and regionally important businesses for the rural economy and tourism. It also promoted the huge economic opportunities across the region and underline the need for public investment and a Growth Deal for Mid Wales.
Powys County Council Leader, Rosemarie Harris added:
“The event is a great opportunity for businesses to engage with key decision makers in Welsh Government and the Mid Wales economy, and to build links with businesses across Wales and the South. We will also have help and support available for people looking to live, work or even locate their business in Mid Wales.”
About the Growing Mid Wales Partnership:
The Growing Mid Wales Partnership is a strong regional partnership comprising of representative bodies from across the private, public and voluntary sector in mid Wales, and was established early in 2015.
It includes significant membership drawn from the private sector including partners representing manufacturing, agricultural and tourism businesses, together with higher and further education, the voluntary sector, Welsh Government and local government representatives.
The Partnership seeks to:
• Achieve more and better economic outcomes across the region by working in partnership.
• Lead the region’s collaborative approach to economic development.
• Agree priorities for jobs and economic growth in the region.
• Provide a strong voice for the almost entirely rural regional economy in Mid Wales.