Created in 1999, Yorkshire Forward is the Regional Development Agency for Yorkshire and Humber, tasked with driving forward the economic growth of one of England’s largest and most diverse regions.

Since its formation the agency has invested over £1billion, created more than 128,000 jobs and attracted more than £1.7 billion private sector investment to the Yorkshire and Humber region.

It has achieved this by operating in three key areas; by working to attract businesses to the region and to create the jobs that will help them grow, by ensuring the people of Yorkshire and Humber have the skills and access to training that means they can help drive the economy forward, and by shaping communities that are inspirational places to live, work and invest.

Yorkshire Forward is leading the region in the development of its business support provision with a new region wide service from 1 April 2008. The new service will provide increased front line services, greater efficiency and a single information gateway - ensuring companies of all sizes and sectors can access the guidance they need to help their business prosper.

For more information on how Yorkshire Forward is driving economic growth in the region, visit www.yorkshire-forward.com