The Northern Affinity, a Leeds-based business community powering growth and development, is expanding its footprint across the North by adding two further regions to its portfolio.
From March, businesses in Greater Manchester will each benefit from the chance to be a part of a specialist support group providing an online platform to connect and collaborate.
Partners of The Northern Affinity will also be able to showcase their work, celebrate successes, collaborate with other like-minded businessowners, and attend regional events – currently virtual.
The Northern Affinity is a partner of the Northern Powerhouse and brings together business owners to provide a platform to power growth and development through ongoing support and collaboration.
With 61 West Yorkshire-based businesses already becoming partners and interest growing from leaders in other regions, the firm is headed for rapid growth.
The expansion comes as the firm recognises the economic potential of Manchester and continues its mission to close the ever-widening North/South Divide.
Manchester is home to 22,850 enterprises and with up to 40% lower operating costs than London and a GVA (£62.8 billion) higher than the UK average, and Michael Edwards, founder of The Northern Affinity says this is why now is the perfect time to expand into the region.
“Our aim is that our new groups will play a role in the ongoing economic success and development of these areas and the wider Northern Powerhouse. I encourage any prospective partners to attend our virtual launch events to find out more.”
Anna Short, regional partner for Greater Manchester added: “Our region has a fantastic business story to tell, and I’m thrilled to be part of this expansion of The Northern Affinity.
“With 98.6% of firms in Manchester reporting an impact from the COVID-19 pandemic, we will look to build back better collaboration within the business community, playing a vital role in Manchester’s future growth and prosperity.”
The group will be officially launched at a virtual event on 4th March, and additional information is available on the Greater Manchester event page.
