The Brunel Centre showcases evidence‑led vision for growth at the Business of the South West Conference
The Brunel Centre joined businesses and regional leaders at the Business of the South West Conference 2026, spotlighting why high quality evidence matters now more than ever and sharing a first look at the major new insights set to land when its Strategic Economic Audit and regional Data Hub launch on 19 March.
The Brunel Centre took part in the Business of the South West Conference 2026, joining regional businesses and organisations to discuss the pivotal role of high quality evidence in shaping better decisions and strengthening the policy debate.
Representing the Centre, Dr Lucy Martin spoke with attendees about how robust data and independent analysis can support smarter policy, stronger industrial strategy, and improved regional outcomes.
“Our mission is to deliver the evidence needed to power sustainable and inclusive economic growth in the West of England,” Dr Martin said.
During the session, the Brunel Centre shared updates on two major pieces of work:
The Strategic Economic Audit of the West of England — publishing 19 March 2026
The Brunel Centre Data Hub and Observatory — launching the same day
Together, these will provide the most comprehensive, independent assessment of the region’s strengths, challenges and opportunities alongside a new, accessible data service covering the Greater West of England, including Bristol, Bath and North East Somerset, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Gloucestershire, Wiltshire and Swindon.
The Centre also outlined how its blend of academic expertise, business insight and access to powerful datasets positions it as a long term regional asset.
Key messages from the Brunel Centre’s presentation
Evidence to power growth: Delivering data and insight that helps unlock sustainable and inclusive economic progress across the region.
A partnership driven approach: Futures West and university partners ensure research is informed by real business intelligence.
Clear research priorities: Productivity, skills, inequality, sustainability and infrastructure — the interconnected challenges shaping quality of life and economic resilience.
Productivity insights: New analysis highlights a clear “WECA productivity premium” and shows where targeted interventions could unlock stronger regional performance.
A regional long term asset: The Data Hub and Observatory will offer consistent, comparable insights across the wider geography.
Support for partners: From modelling and dashboards to evaluations and policy advice, the Centre is helping organisations strengthen their evidence base.
The Brunel Centre encouraged organisations across the South West to make use of its expertise and new services:
If you need deeper insight, analysis or collaborative research to support your work — get in touch.
As the region looks ahead to a pivotal year, the Brunel Centre stands ready to support businesses, policymakers and partners with the rigorous evidence and practical insight they need to drive sustainable, inclusive growth. With the Strategic Economic Audit and new Data Hub launching on 19 March, the invitation is clear: if stronger decisions, sharper strategy and deeper understanding would help your organisation, get in touch. We’re here to help power the West of England’s future.