Cumbria has a dynamic and diverse economy. As well as being home to major employers such as BAE, GSK, Sellafield Ltd and Pirelli, we have an internationally recognised tourism offer and a vibrant rural economy.

The county’s strengths attract major industries and investment - from large companies to dynamic small and medium-sized businesses, many of which form our manufacturing supply chain and are important in driving innovation.

Cumbria’s economy offers a range of opportunities to SMEs, and supply chain development is a priority for the LEP, as it is a major contributor to economic growth.

The LEP is aiming to deliver a cross-sector supply chain management programme to ensure that local businesses win more contracts and are supported to diversify and grow.

We are working to align our SMEs with sectors of growth, provide support to encourage innovation, and work with partners and major businesses to encourage investment.

Our investment in schemes such as Barrow Waterfront aims to maximise supply chain opportunities. Adjacent to Barrow Waterfront, BAE Systems supports a highly technical supply chain which is contributing to its submarine design and build program.

The LEP’s planned investments in Lillyhall North, Whitehaven Town Centre and Carlisle Station Gateway and the Citadels will develop employment sites, creating and safeguarding jobs. We will also be investing £1m in grants to help small businesses. These investments will both support major employers and encourage supply chain businesses.

The proposals for a new nuclear plant at Moorside also present a huge opportunity to create high-value jobs and local supply chains. We are working hard with NuGen and the government to deliver this project, and maximise the benefits for local supply chains and the wider Cumbrian economy.

We are also taking measures to develop the skills of supply chains and the local workforce to help major businesses and SMEs increase their productivity.

The Skills Investment Plan published by Cumbria LEP includes proposals to strengthen links between industry and training providers to ensure young people acquire the relevant skills for the local jobs market.

Measures are also being taken to raise awareness of the opportunities in Cumbria for ambitious graduates, especially those interested in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) careers.

We are also looking to encourage collaboration between sector-based supply chains to ensure that new products and services can be developed in Cumbria.