The West Midlands economy has seen a £120 million uplift thanks to a business and tourism support initiative led by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA). The Economy, Trade and Tourism Programme has attracted tens of thousands of visitors and driven over £70 million in new business investment.
The programme featured an inward investment campaign and tailored business support, helping over 250 companies grow, expand into new markets, and collectively create or safeguard around 12,000 jobs. Skills training through the initiative has also improved career prospects for 11,000 local people by supporting job placements, work experience, and new qualifications.
In addition, funding from the Major Events Fund supported 10 cultural and sporting events across the region, drawing 300,000 attendees and contributing an estimated £19 million to the local economy. Events included the Kabaddi World Cup, European Judo Union Junior Cup, and major esports competitions, as well as popular festivals like the Black Country Festival, Coventry’s Godiva Festival, Reggae Fever, and the Birmingham Weekender.
Mayor Richard Parker praised the programme’s impact:
“Our Economy, Trade and Tourism Programme has delivered real results—helping businesses grow, creating jobs, and boosting our cultural and tourism sectors. The West Midlands economy is finally gaining momentum, and my regional growth plan will build on this success to ensure prosperity reaches every community.”
The programme, funded through the £70 million Commonwealth Games Legacy Enhancement Fund managed by WMCA and backed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, also provided targeted support to 50 high-growth businesses, aiming to boost their investment and turnover by £20 million. Social enterprises and community businesses also saw their combined trading income rise by £8 million, creating 215 jobs.
Over 100 early and mid-career creatives and cultural organisations received grants and skills support, alongside funding for community events aimed at increasing high street footfall.
The Legacy Fund also supported future use of Commonwealth Games venues, including Sandwell Aquatics Centre and Alexander Stadium, helping them continue offering sports and activity programmes for local residents while preparing to host major events like the European Athletics Championships.
Ashok Das, president of the England Kabaddi Association and World Kabaddi, highlighted the significance of the support:
“The Commonwealth Games legacy fund played a vital role in bringing the Kabaddi World Cup to the West Midlands, attracting record crowds and putting the region in the global spotlight.”
