growth sectors

The potential for flourishing business continues to grow These are tough times, but Greater Lincoln enjoys stable performance across most sectors, with some in particular experiencing growth despite the economic downturn.

One such growth sector is the creative industries. In the broader East Midlands, 12,375 creative industries turn over around £6.9 billion a year. In Greater Lincoln, the creative industries are clustered within Lincoln, Gainsborough and Sleaford, and the region boasts approximately 40% of Lincolnshire's 2,000 creative industries businesses. But there is also significant potential for growth in more rural districts - a key factor for the region.  Creative industries are becoming increasingly important to a flourishing Greater Lincoln. So much so that various initiatives have been set up to support the sector, including: Lincolnshire Creative Solutions Initiative, which assists and funds enterprises and cultural festivals; Sparkhouse Studios, an exciting environment established by the University of Lincoln within which young start-up companies can be nurtured; the Terrace, a managed workspace aimed at encouraging dynamic working and creative collaborations; and the Hatch Centre for Creative Development, part of the University of Lincoln's Faculty of Art, Architecture and Design.

It may be particularly surprising considering the effects of the recession, but construction is another growth sector in Greater Lincoln. Encompassing other related sectors such as real estates, consultancy and technical services such as architectural and surveying works, the sector's growth prospects are largely due to Gainsborough and Lincoln's Growth Point Status, a Government initiative which supports large-scale and sustainable growth, including new housing.

Alongside financial services and business support which also continue to grow, environmental industries is another major growth sector, largely related to the increasing focus on climate change and commitment of local authorities to move to a low-carbon economy. The implementation of home energy efficiencies and renewable energies that will be endorsed by the Government as new reforms affecting businesses and members of the public, has already captured the interest of new and existing businesses in the region looking to diversify within this sector. A real source of inspiration for these businesses is the EPIC Centre, one of the first significant low-carbon projects in Greater Lincoln which demonstrates some of the new ways sustainable technology can be harnessed in a building context.

Finally, tourism. Greater Lincoln is an increasingly attractive proposition to tourists. In 2007, Lincolnshire welcomed 16,712,900 visitors and that figure is on the rise thanks to the county's many attractions and special events throughout the year - from the Christmas Food & Drink Fair, Christmas Market and the Royal Agricultural Society Show, to Shakespeare in the Medieval Bishops Palace and the Waddington Air Show.