Sarah Newbould, Associate Director at the British Business Bank, explores the North East’s growing innovation economy and why access to finance will be critical to turning the region’s strengths into long-term growth. The North East has a strong track record of innovation.

Leaders from the UK’s accredited Chambers of Commerce came together in Westminster, today, to urge the Chancellor to back business, cut costs and deliver growth in his Budget. They gathered near the Treasury building, to highlight the growing cost pressures facing firms across the country and call for action to rebuild business confidence and investment.

A UK home improvement group is set to create a new aluminium manufacturing facility in Doncaster. Conservatory Outlet Group, which comprises CO Manufacturing and CO Home Improvements, made the announcement at its annual Gala Dinner in Malaga.

Employers across the North are being warned to be fully compliant with new third party harassment laws which come into force later this month or face severe consequences. Changes introduced by the Employment Rights Act 2025 on October 30 require employers to take ‘all reasonable steps’ to prevent employees being harassed by third parties.

Brent crude edges down to around $104 a barrel but remains more than 40% higher than before the conflict with Iran began. Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia heighten concerns over regional stability and energy supplies, despite Trump's deal with Putin on Russian diesel exports. Wall Street looks set for a brisk start as earnings season gets underway, with big banks and mega-cap tech in focus. AI investment continues to support growth, but inflation, borrowing costs and government debt remain key concerns. UK bond markets will be watching closely ahead of Chancellor John Healey's crucial Autumn Budget.

This year’s Yorkshire Property Charity Lunch has raised £65,500 for good causes, making it the most successful event in its 22-year history. More than 600 members of Yorkshire’s property community attended the annual lunch at the First Direct Bank Arena in Leeds, following football and netball matches in which property agents faced teams of property professionals.

Eversheds Sutherland has welcomed finance partner, Andrew Fordham, reinforcing its strategic intent to further strengthen its international banking and finance practice and expand its capabilities across key UK and global markets.

Skipton Business Finance has provided a £3 million funding package to Yorkshire confectionery manufacturer The Serious Sweet Company, giving the business additional working capital to support its plans for organic growth and investment.