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Friday 14 May 2010

Midlands City Best in Europe for Enterprise

By Ben Aulakh

Birmingham has been named as the most successful city in Europe for promoting entrepreneurship and new businesses, beating the likes of London, Paris, Frankfurt and Madrid to the prestigious title.

The city was judged number one in the ‘promotion’ category, at the European Cities Entrepreneurship Ranking 2010.

The study measures 37 of the continent’s largest cities according to how they promote, support and create an environment for entrepreneurs and new business growth.

Cllr Mike Whitby, Leader of Birmingham City Council said, “I am delighted that we have been recognised as the top European city for promoting entrepreneurship.

“This award reflects the formidable effort which the Council and its partners have put into first understanding, and then supporting the individual needs of small businesses in our city.”

The ranking was based primarily on projects which shared useful information and promoted the development of skills among potential and recent business creators, as well as creating an environment within which new businesses could prosper.

These projects include a Business Bulletin, a fortnightly e-bulletin which is sent to more than 100,000 businesses in the city, and the Entrepreneurship of the Future Regeneration Loans, support of between £10, 000 to £500, 000 given to small and medium sized businesses.

Jerry Blackett, Chief Executive of the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce said “The Chamber is delighted to have contributed to Birmingham receiving this accolade.

“We have been able to help many small firms with their big business ideas through our Business Venture Department, which offers a range of free workshops including book keeping and marketing.

“In an effort to encourage new businesses we have also introduced a new start up package which provides a financial boost in the first year of enterprise.”

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