Job-creating programme unveiled for Commonwealth Games 2022

13th August 2021

We’re applauding the launch of a government programme to boost the long-term economic impact made by the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games.

The Business and Tourism Programme (BATP) plans to generate more than £650m in investment and create approximately 1000 jobs, with up to 600 of these roles based in the West Midlands.

The scheme will build on the profile created by the Games to attract more visitors, trade, events and investment into the West Midlands and the whole of the UK. It will concentrate on nations and territories across the Commonwealth, plus the domestic UK market.

The BATP runs from early 2021 until the end of 2023, taking advantage of opportunities before, during and after the Games. It is expected to attract an additional 39,000 visitors to the region and UK until 2027, with an estimated £12m in visitor spend.

Activity will include sales missions, showcase events, marketing campaigns and a media programme. Targeted meetings with investors will take place alongside cultural celebrations and showcase events will help to demonstrate UK innovation and world-leading expertise to a global audience.

Four key sectors

The BATP’s trade and investment strands will focus on four key sectors, in which the UK has been identified as a global leader:

• Data-driven healthcare
• Creative technologies
• Future mobility
• Modern business services.

The aim is to help create new trading relationships and attract overseas investment. The programme will also support sectors including ecommerce and the sports economy.

As the Games approach, a business readiness campaign aims to help local hospitality businesses prepare. Tourists will be able to use a digital visitor platform and pop-up information sites to enjoy the experiences on offer.

After the event, activity will focus on supporting businesses looking to locate in the UK, confirming export contracts, and securing capital investments. Tourists will be encouraged to visit the area again, while bids to host more sports tournaments and major events will capitalise on the exposure from the Games.

Funding for the BATP comes from central and local government and there will be opportunities for private sector sponsorship of the programme.

To find out more about the opportunities visit the Birmingham 2022 website.

In related news, read about Sandwell Business Ambassador Gurpreet Bhatia’s appointment to the Commonwealth Sport Foundation board.