Evaluating the North East’s £10m Inward Investment Programme

We developed an evaluation framework covering both grant funding and capacity funding for three investment agencies. Drawing on monitoring data, consultations, case studies, and economic modelling, we assessed how programme activity translated into business growth and wider economic outcomes. A clear theory of change provided a consistent framework for measuring and interpreting impact.

Our evidence helped partners understand programme performance, align future investment decisions, and strengthen the case for continued support for inward investment activity.

Key Findings

• Over £10m invested to support business expansion and attraction in the region
• Created more than 1,000 new gross jobs and over £50m in Gross Value Added
• Strengthened local supply chains and improved perceptions of the North East as a business destination

For a full account of the evaluation findings, see the published report on the North East Evidence Hub.