Over 200 civic and business leaders convened in Sheffield this week for Live Lab, the first in a series of city-focused Inquiries into unlocking potential in UK cities, convened by Grant Thornton.
The all-day event examined and interrogated opportunities to realise Sheffield’s potential, bringing together many of the city’s leading entrepreneurs, business figures and government leaders.
Guests were challenged to define a vision for the future of the city, and how it can harness distinctive advantages to build a more prosperous, sustainable and inclusive economic future. Topics discussed ranged from the importance of collaborative working to the need to think big on the future of transport, change the way education is preparing the next generation of talent, and harness the city’s unique culture and ethos.
The event was part of Grant Thornton’s ongoing work to explore how a Vibrant Economy can be shaped in the UK, by unlocking the shared potential of people, companies, cities and communities. Further Inquiries will take place in more than 10 UK cities over the coming year. Seven Hills is working with Grant Thornton around the Vibrant Economy agenda and national programme.
Michael Hayman MBE, Co-founder of Seven Hills, who spoke at the event, comments: “This gathering is a first for British cities. The vibrancy in the room was palpable and a tribute to the ambition and ideas of the people that convened to discuss the future of the city. We’re absolutely thrilled to have supported Grant Thornton in kicking off its Vibrant Economy Inquiries.”