The strategy will build on the existing regional competitiveness partnerships and strategies, now being prepared in each region. In addition, RDAs will build up an expertise in analysis of the regional economy, both theoretical and practical, informed by their extensive contacts with all regional partners and regionally-significant sectors and firms. The primary role of the RDA should be the creation of a coherent and integrated regional economic development strategy . They bring together the business support activities of the Chambers of Commerce, Training and Enterprise Councils, local enterprise agencies and local authorities under the Business Links brand. They also provide access to the full range of Government services provided to help small firms.
Business Links are private-sector organisations with a public purpose.
They receive significant funding from Government, via contracts between the Government Offices and the parent TEC, and also from partners, sponsors and from their customers. The Business Link network is to be enhanced, following the statement published by the Government on 7 October 1997. RDAs will make an important contribution to improving the performance of Business Links in providing business support. For example, while each Business Link will continue to contract through the Training and Enterprise Council and the Government Office, its business plan will be developed within the framework of the RDA s regional economic strategy, so that their services can match more closely the needs of the region. RDAs will also work with the Government Offices in monitoring the performance of Business Links.