Growing Innovation From Within: How Established Businesses Drive Regional Growth

I enjoyed being part of the Coast + Commerce Podcast by Innovate Media :: Video Strategy and Content Production. Click here to view the video on Youtube; you can use the index in the description just below the video to jump to a section of interest.

In this conversation, Ben Amos and I discuss the evolving business landscape of the Sunshine Coast - also relevant for many regions around the world - focusing on the importance of innovation and the potential for growth by existing businesses within the region.

Ben Amos of Innovate Media and Colin Graham discuss growing businesses and the impact they make to regional economies.

We explore the concept of economic gardening - pioneered by Chris Gibbons in Colorado - emphasising the need to support the growth of existing businesses rather than solely concentrating on economic hunting and new business attraction. Attraction is part of the mix, but helping local entrepreneurs to grow their companies will have a bigger impact.

We also discuss long-running, practical and high-impact programs such as Profitnet, a peer-to-peer learning network for business leaders in the UK, Ireland and South Africa founded by George Tsekouras.

The discussion highlights the importance of identifying and supporting the 'missing middle' of businesses in regions. They explore the need for a structured support system for second-stage growth companies, the role of government and business leaders in fostering growth, and practical steps for business owners to innovate and thrive.