One NorthEast, one of nine UK government Regional Development Agencies, is tasked with driving forward the economic development of the North East of England in line with national aims and objectives for the development of the UK’s economy. With an annual budget of £300m the Agency is involved in all aspects of economic development including investment in: infrastructure, continuous development of sound business support mechanisms and the creation of an environment that allows business to grow and prosper.

One NorthEast, recognising the importance of science and industry has placed it at the centre of its economic strategy and further endorsed with the formation of a regional Science and Industry Council. Comprised of renowned industrialists and academics, the Council has real decision-making and spending powers - £40 million to fund innovative projects and research as part of the region’s ‘Strategy for Success’ programme.

A major achievement of this programme has been the formation of five Centres of Excellence, as a direct result of a recent study undertaken by Cambridge consultants Arthur D.Little, which highlighted the world-class strengths of the North East in five high technology areas: Life Sciences, Digital Technology and Media, New and Renewable Energies, Process Industries and Nanotechnology.

Utilising the cutting edge research and development work undertaken by the region’s five universities the Centres of Excellence aim to achieve world-class competitive excellence through technology transfer from the research base to business. These initiatives ensure the North East is recognised throughout Europe as the leading region in the UK for placing academia at the heart of its economic development.

One NorthEast is committed to further promoting links with Australia in the three key areas listed below and believes that further development of trade and investment links through our Centres of Excellence will be beneficial to both the UK and the Australian economies:

• Life Sciences/Biotechnology
• Digital Technology & Media
• Renewable Energies

The North East of England has had a long and rewarding relationship working with companies and organisations from the Asia Pacific rim. To further develop this relationship One NorthEast can provide a free and confidential service to assist companies to develop new business opportunities in Europe through new greenfield site investments, joint ventures, collaborations and technology transfers.

What One NorthEast can do for you:

• Provide a single point of contact for developing plans for the European markets
• Help bridge the gap between industry and academia
• Provide a free and confidential service in the identification of a suitable greenfield site location, joint venture company or partner for collaboration on new research and development
• Access to financial assistance for the creation and development of new business ventures in the North East
• Organisation of structured inward visits to the region

For more information on a forthcoming visit to the market and the opportunity to meet Michelle Lowes, Senior Executive at One NorthEast to discuss investment opportunities in the North East of England please telephone on +44 (191) 229 6326 or e-mail michelle.lowes@onenortheast.co.uk

Website: www.onenortheast.co.uk