On Wednesday 29th September 2010, leaders from County Durham who represented both the private and public sectors came together to celebrate the achievements and successes of local enterprise and to hear from a number of case studies how they have contributed to the economic transformation of our county.
There were three key aims for this event;
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highlight the importance of enterprise and the benefits it brings to the regional economy
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demonstrate that enterprise is a shared responsibility which brings shared benefits, and should be supported by wide range of organisations
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highlight that there is a role for both public and private sectors in promoting enterprise
Throughout the course of the event we heard, first hand, on the experience of local businesses and individuals who have all been “Enterprising” in some way to the benefit of the local economy. Whether this be through setting up their own business or through being involved with an enterprising programme within schools and further education.
The event was chaired by Dinah Bennett, Director at Durham University’s centre for entrepreneurial learning, who spoke about key economic statistics within the county as well as interviewing the guest speakers who were as follows:
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David Harker, Durham County Cricket Club
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Brian Manning, The Esh Group
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Barbara Chrisp, The Cabbage Patch
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Paul Storey, MRB Schumag.
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Wayne Hall, Medical Services North East.
Finally there was a talk from Doug Richard, Enterprise Champion, focusing on his views around enterprise, its benefits to local economies and also the need for there to be a focus on increasing that enterprising culture within communities, particularly amongst the younger generation. “Primary school is never too early”.
In the current economic climate, we need to be proud of our public sector roots but going forward, we must rebalance these roots. Do well to do good and our county will reap the benefits.
Thanks to all those individuals who participated in making this an enjoyable and successful event.
Presentations from the event:
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Celebration of Enterprise Event - Presentation by Dinah Bennett.pdf (7 pages, 703kb)