Priority One's purpose is to build a vibrant economy that
retains and attracts talented, skilled and creative people and the
businesses that need them.

Fostering
Innovation

This theme is about supporting the development of the region’s innovation eco-system to create an entrepreneurial culture to add value to the primary product base, transforming the economy into a highly productive one that is globally competitive.

A Compelling
Destination

This theme is about creating places, facilities, activities and events to turn the Western Bay of Plenty’s lifestyle advantages into a source of competitive advantage in the attraction of skilled and talented people and business.

A Hub for
Skills & Talent

This theme is about developing a highly skilled work force that meets the needs of a competitive, export led economy. It encompasses school and tertiary education, as well as industry-based training and up-skilling.

Connecting &
Collaborating

This theme is about developing the alliances, networks and information flows that will produce results across the entire strategy. It includes developing partnerships between business, the education sector and government.

Moving your
business here

This theme is about the attraction of investment to the Western Bay sub-region in the form of businesses who gain a competitive advantage from being based here. It includes the development of an FDI strategy to contribute to economic growth.