Transforming Policies into Actions: The Role of Governance Structures in Inclusive Economic Development

Governance structures and institutions play a crucial role in converting policies into tangible actions to pursue inclusive economic development. Institutional frameworks can support or hinder progress, making their study essential for ensuring that innovative ideas translate into real outcomes. This blog delves into the key findings, impacts, and recommendations from various research projects, all aimed … Continue reading “Transforming Policies into Actions: The Role of Governance Structures in Inclusive Economic Development”

The Role of Innovation Ecosystems in Regional Economic Growth: A Case Study of the West Midlands

Innovation ecosystems are fundamental drivers of regional economic growth, particularly in areas where there is a strong emphasis on research and development (R&D), advanced manufacturing, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) assets. In this blog, we explore the impact of the West Midlands Research and Economic Development Initiative (WMREDI) in fostering these ecosystems, with … Continue reading “The Role of Innovation Ecosystems in Regional Economic Growth: A Case Study of the West Midlands”

The Impact of WMREDI : Shaping Evidence-Based Policy and Business Cases

This blog highlights the work of the West Midlands Economic Development Institute (WMREDI) in developing evidence-based policy, business cases, and evaluation frameworks to support regional growth. It discusses WMREDI’s impact on building analytical capabilities, fostering resilience, and shaping local industrial strategies through innovative tools, research, and collaborations. In the dynamic landscape of regional policy development, … Continue reading “The Impact of WMREDI : Shaping Evidence-Based Policy and Business Cases”

The WMREDI Story: Insights From Danielle Dale

In her new role as Executive Assistant for Professor Rebecca Riley, Danielle Dale blogs about attending the launch event of the WMREDI Story. I am really enjoying being an Executive Assistant for our Deputy Pro Vice Chancellor for Regional Engagement, Professor Rebecca Riley (Bec). Bec co-directs our City-REDI research institute. Recently, I attended the West … Continue reading “The WMREDI Story: Insights From Danielle Dale”

The Launch of the WMREDI Story

The WMREDI Story was launched on Thursday, 10 October, at The Exchange, University of Birmingham. The report provides an in-depth look at the West Midlands Regional Economic Development Institute’s (WMREDI) successes, challenges, achievements, and impact. Find out more and download the WMREDI Story A brief history of WMREDI WMREDI was based at the University of … Continue reading “The Launch of the WMREDI Story”

REDI for the Next Adventure: My Reflections… and a Big Thanks!

Simon Collinson reflects on his time at the University of Birmingham before he leaves to embark on his next big adventure. After nearly 12 years at the University of Birmingham (UoB), I am leaving to join Zhejiang University (ZJU) in Hangzhou, China, to continue my research on innovation and local economic growth. This will be … Continue reading “REDI for the Next Adventure: My Reflections… and a Big Thanks!”

Meet Donald Houston, City-REDI/WMREDI’s New Professor of Regional Economic Development

National data are wrong everywhere.  This is why a regional approach is essential to understand the economy.  More of this later. First to say is that I’m delighted to have joined City-REDI in April 2023 as a Professor of Regional Economic Development. My mission is to support and contribute to City-REDI’s rigorous and relevant research … Continue reading “Meet Donald Houston, City-REDI/WMREDI’s New Professor of Regional Economic Development”

University of Birmingham Students Wanted for Internship at WMREDI

University of Birmingham students wanted for Policy and Data Analyst internships at WMREDI starting in June/July 2022. The West Midlands Regional Economic Development Institute (WMREDI) was established following City-REDI’s significant grant award from Research England (UKRI). The team is an innovative hybrid approach of academic, policy research and support staff delivering relevant and impactful research … Continue reading “University of Birmingham Students Wanted for Internship at WMREDI”

Meet Huanjia Ma, City-REDI/WMREDI’s New Research Fellow

I joined City-REDI in February after completing my PhD in Economics at the University of Birmingham. I am an applied economist and my main research fields are in regional economic development, firm behaviour and household finance. I specialise in conducting empirical analysis as well as causal inference with panel data at both micro and macro … Continue reading “Meet Huanjia Ma, City-REDI/WMREDI’s New Research Fellow”

Meet Ellie Macdonald, City-REDI/WMREDI’s New Apprentice

I am the new digital marketing and communications apprentice at City-REDI. I am hoping my degree in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Salford can help me to create new and inspiring content for our audience as I embark on a new career. An apprenticeship was not something I wanted to do when I finished … Continue reading “Meet Ellie Macdonald, City-REDI/WMREDI’s New Apprentice”