Getting Inspired at the West Midlands Forum for Growth 2019

While Steve himself is a born and bred Londoner, we also have a strong presence in the West Midlands; our digital design and development team are based in Wolverhampton, and we’re proud to be part of the area.

And it’s an especially exciting time for the region right now.

Our Digital Director and Communications Executive recently spent the day at the West Midlands Forum for Growth 2019. This event, from Movers and Shakers in partnership with the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC), hosted speakers, panels, and networking sessions around the latest developments across the region.

5G Connectivity

A large part of the West Midlands’ growth is set to come from the rollout of 5G internet. With the potential to be up to 100x faster than 4G, 5G represents the most exciting digital development of the era.

Faster speeds and more reliable connections give 5G almost limitless potential. Recent research showed we can use it to make holographic phone calls, something which previously was just a futuristic dream.

And what’s more, the West Midlands is at the heart of the action.

Birmingham recently became a 5G test bed, meaning residents can experience its hugely improved connectivity ahead of the national rollout. 5G has also been tested on the University of Wolverhampton’s Springfield campus.

Youth and Innovation

One of the most exciting things about the West Midlands is its youth and vibrancy. Birmingham in particular is the youngest major city in Europe, with 40% of its population aged under 25.

We see this youthfulness reflected in its innovation and creative energy; Birmingham has the fastest growing economy outside London, with an increase of 12.5% in GDP since 2016. It’s also home to the highest number of startups outside the capital.

Further afield, in Wolverhampton – where our studio is based – growth is also flourishing. 80% of students from the University of Wolverhampton stay in the area to work after graduation, and the university also ranks among the top 5 nationally for graduate employability.

Meanwhile in Coventry, industry-leading research into robotics in housebuilding is underway.

Looking to the Future

Spending the day among the leaders and innovators of the West Midlands and beyond was an inspiring reminder of all the amazing potential we have – as well as the incredible progress already achieved.

All of these innovative developments and exciting projects mean the West Midlands is the perfect place to be growing your business right now, whatever industry you work in. We’re proud to be part of such a forward-thinking and fast-growing region.

Looking to take your brand to the next level? Contact us at hello@steve-edge.com to see how we can help.