Those That Could Go Either Way

I'm no economist, but it seems to me that the strength of the regional economy is particularly dependent on loading the dice in favour of success for technology companies that maybe could 'go either way' or operate in a niche. Some contribute high-quality jobs to the economy, such as media companies and those dependent on individual creativity, but will never scale beyond a certain size. Many and often is the key to success for these boutiques, not trying to distort their business model.

Simon Hill, director of enterprise at Yorkshire Forward, emphasised at Vikingar (see previous post) that government intervention is best targeted at companies that have the potential for high growth. The key point here is that we want growth of high-quality jobs and more successful companies. Government support and invention is best targeted, not at the beacons of success (although I can understand the wish to dwell in their shadow), but more the small bonfires that are in danger of just smoldering, unless some help and support in their early stages of development. Getting more reluctant entrepreneurs to try starting a business, or giving high-quality advice and support to fledgling enterprises that could go either way is where the difference needs to be made.