A city in northern England has become the continent’s hub for digital growth, outpacing other major tech hubs.
Manchester’s digital economy has grown at an astonishing 9.8% annual rate over the past five years, making it the fastest-growing in Europe, according to a recent report. This meteoric rise has catapulted Manchester ahead of cities like Berlin and Amsterdam, traditionally considered Europe’s top tech hubs.
Mayor Andy Burnham’s digital legacy
Andy Burnham, Manchester’s mayor, has been instrumental in driving this growth. His administration has implemented a series of initiatives aimed at making the city a more attractive destination for startups and established tech firms alike. These initiatives include the establishment of a dedicated digital innovation hub, as well as measures to boost connectivity and talent attraction.
Policy lessons for the rest of the UK
The success of Manchester’s digital economy has caught the attention of policymakers across the UK. As the country’s regions continue to grapple with the challenges of post-Brexit economic development, Manchester’s blueprint is being touted as a model for other parts of the country.
The city’s focus on creating a vibrant startup ecosystem, coupled with its commitment to supporting established tech firms, has paid dividends. Manchester’s digital economy is now worth an estimated £10 billion, with the sector accounting for one in five jobs in the city.
But what makes Manchester’s story particularly noteworthy is the way in which its digital growth has been driven by a collaborative approach between the public and private sectors. By working together, the city has been able to identify and address the key challenges facing its tech industry, from access to funding and talent to connectivity and infrastructure.
A blueprint for the UK’s regional revival
Manchester’s digital transformation is a testament to the power of targeted policy and strategic planning. As the UK’s regions look to revive their economies in the wake of Brexit, Manchester’s example offers a compelling blueprint for success.
By replicating Manchester’s approach, other cities and regions across the country could unlock the potential of their own digital economies, driving growth, job creation, and prosperity.
Andy Burnham’s mayoral record on digital growth is certainly worth nationalising – and policymakers across the UK would do well to take a closer look at Manchester’s winning formula.
