ASK THE EXPERT: ALISON POUNTNEY

Alison.pountney@liverpool.ac.uk

While interacting with those supporting entrepreneurs in Liverpool, I frequently hear frustrations about the siloed nature of their work. Opportunities for collaboration often go untapped. This fragmentation hampers resource efficiency hindering the overall growth of our entrepreneurial community. Despite abundant expertise, duplicated services are common, indicating a need for more strategic allocation allowing us to build a comprehensive and interconnected support system for emerging entrepreneurs.

University of Liverpool and Liverpool John Moores University jointly established LCR Founders, backed by ERDF. Through the initiative, both universities effectively brought together student and graduate talent, nurturing the emergence of innovative start-ups across the LCR. The approach not only retained skilled graduates but also addressed skill shortages, created jobs and fostered positive economic growth for the city. The university partnership has triggered collaborative efforts with many other city organisations, leading to a valuable exchange of knowledge, mentorship, and support that goes beyond the project’s original scope.

With many funded projects concluding, the challenge lies in continuing to cultivate these opportunities. Supporting entrepreneurs beyond their specialised subjects is pivotal as it encourages a holistic approach to innovation. While expertise is vital, entrepreneurs often encounter multifaceted challenges demanding diverse skills and a comprehensive grasp of various business aspects. Extending support beyond immediate expertise aids entrepreneurs in navigating complexities, adapting to markets, and devising well-rounded solutions.

in line with the City Region’s ambitions to achieve net zero carbon by 2040.”

A representative from a Toyota Dealership shared:

“Working in collaboration with Hugh Baird College and sharing our intelligence will enable our industry to grow and will have a stronger impact on the quality of delivery of auto-tech qualifications of the future.”

Hugh Baird College plans to develop and introduce Electric/Hybrid Technology qualifications at Level 3 and 4 from 2024.

Collaboration among regional institutions and organisations is crucial for nurturing this entrepreneurial ecosystem. Collective endeavours establish an interconnected network leveraging diverse resources, experiences, and perspectives. Such unity accelerates growth, fosters idea exchange, mentors, and drives collaborations. This cohesive ecosystem attracts investment and talent, bolstering the region’s reputation as an innovation hub and promoting sustainable economic progress. When we join forces, the region becomes greater than its parts, enabling innovation to flourish.

We must consider adopting a shared responsibility to fuel a vibrant ecosystem, drawing investors beyond the traditional capital to Liverpool. Embracing a horizontal information-sharing approach, rather than vertical hierarchy, interconnected knowledge dissemination can foster collaborative growth, enabling entrepreneurs to access diverse resources. Institutions should rethink their roles, welcoming a collective vision. By fostering an open ecosystem, smaller regions can usher in an era of innovation and economic resurgence, breaking free from exclusivity and barriers.