This new project will build on existing work, including that of the Business Commission and the West Midlands and Warwickshire Local Skills Improvement Plan, in seeking to understand where businesses are in their digitisation journey, the capabilities and skills required to facilitate further digitisation, and how barriers to further digitisation in the region can be overcome through collaboration.

The Chambers will be looking to gather insights on these topics through upcoming Quarterly Economic Surveys, as well as focus groups with employers in Greater Birmingham, Coventry and Warwickshire and the Black Country.

The Mastering the Future with Digital Skills report, summarising the findings of the research, will be published later in the year.

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “New technologies present a critical opportunity for businesses of all sectors and sizes to boost productivity and drive economic growth.

“However, we must work collaboratively to ensure that the region is equipped with the right digital skills to make the most of this opportunity.

“Through this research we want to understand where businesses are on their digital journey, their current and future digital skills needs, and how the region can most effectively deliver the skills to drive digital prosperity.”

Kevin Vashi, managing director of Netcom Training, said: “In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, equipping individuals with essential digital skills is not just a necessity—it’s a fundamental driver of economic growth, innovation, and inclusivity. Our mission is to bridge the digital divide and ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, has the tools and confidence to thrive in the digital era."

The Chamber’s next Quarterly Economic Survey launches today February 10, 2025.

Please contact Hazel Pilling to register your interest in participating in one of our upcoming focus groups: [email protected]