Corporate research and development spending is an important indicator of whether companies are investing in their future.
Venture capital is one of three main sources of funding used to start and grow new companies.
Other sources include personal savings and investment by family and friends. These firms are usually highly innovative in their technology and market focus. The amount of venture capital invested in our region and the types of industries supported are predictors of future job and output growth. Vacancy rates are a leading indicator of economic expansion or downturn. Declining vacancies mean lease rates may increase, as may investment in property development.