We set the strategy for public-sector funded business support services in the region, investing in and prioritising products and projects that provide the most value for the regional economy and unlock business potential. In order to deliver these support products and services to businesses, we fund and manage the Business Link network across the region 
 
In the light of current challenging economic circumstances, we have moved quickly to re-focus our support strategies - see Business Support for more information. We have also produced a document First Steps: Action for Recovery to outline our plans and intentions for business support in the short to medium term. 
 
Responding to the short term economic uncertainty is important. It does not mean that we have shifted our focus away from investing in the long term health of the economy. We remain focused on building the foundations of a successful low carbon economy as outlined in our recent Corporate Plan.

Encouraging new enterprise and business growth will help to generate lasting productivity gains and more sustainable prosperity. 
 
The RDA will base its engagement with business on three 'market segments':

• Strategic Businesses - businesses that are strategically important to the region, key sectors or places.
• Growth Businesses - businesses that offer the greatest opportunity to unlock potential and generate low-carbon, productivity-led economic growth.
• Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) - all business in this segment will have access to support services through Business Link.

To complement these activities, and in recognition of the increasingly global nature of the UK economy, the RDA will increase its focus on attracting and retaining foreign direct investment. 
 
The RDA will focus on key sectors: advanced engineering, ICT, marine, food and drink, creative industries, environmental technologies and bio-medical. The Agency will continue to explore the needs of other high value sectors of the economy such as business and financial services. 
 
In addition, we will continue to work with UK Trade and Investment to improve the region's export performance and facilitate international collaboration between regional companies, academic institutions, trade-organisations and corresponding organisations in targeted markets.