Cameron launches ‘GREAT’ campaign to boost entrepreneurial growth

David Cameron has announced a new drive to maximise economic potential on the back of the Olympic Games and royal celebrations, promoting Britain abroad as a place to do business. 

Speaking at a meeting in New York, he highlighted the UK as one of the best places to do business, invest, study and visit in the hope that it will attract an extra four million visitors over the next four years: “In 2012 there will be only one place to be. With the Olympic and Paralympic Games coming to London next summer, the greatest show on earth is about to arrive in one of the world’s greatest cities. 

“We are determined to make the most of this unprecedented opportunity to ensure we deliver a lasting economic legacy that will benefit the whole country.

“This campaign is simple. There are so many great things about Britain and we want to send out the message loud and proud that this is a great place to do business, to invest, to study and to visit.”

Led by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, ‘GREAT’ will focus on 10 key areas, including technology and innovation, entrepreneurship and knowledge. Posters, including the one above, are being used. The campaign will promote the government’s increased tax incentives to start-ups and its corporation tax cut as reasons to invest. 

Speaking in support of the campaign, business secretary Vince Cable added: “The Olympics is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the best of British. We want to demonstrate the great products we already offer the world, from Formula One racing cars to innovative aerospace technology and cutting edge fashion brands.  And we want to highlight the opportunities for world-leading businesses with global ambition to invest and grow in Britain.”

The prime minister also announced plans for a ‘Global Investment Conference’ which will congregate investment and business leaders on the eve of the games to discuss opportunities for growth. A schedule of summits, including the ‘British Business Embassy’, will look to address key sectors for global growth and will provide the opportunity for over 3,500 small businesses to showcase their company to international businesses and create potential investment opportunities. 

An online ‘British Business Club’ will also be created as a networking resource for UK and international companies in order to encourage business partnerships. The website is already live, ahead of next year’s games, and is free to join for both UK and international businesses.