Local authorities in the south Midlands have created a new group to boost economic growth.
The South Midlands growth hub will provide free business support and advice and access to funding.The careers hub, which will run alongside it, will work with employers and careers leaders across schools and colleges to provide guidance to young people and prepare them for the transition from education to the workplace.
It will comprise Bedford BC, Central Bedfordshire Council, Luton BC, Milton Keynes City Council, North Northamptonshire Council and West Northamptonshire Council.
The partnership was previously known as the Central Area Growth Board, but changes to local government structures mean it will now be consolidated into a unified brand with the two hubs.
Ruth Roan, the new group's manager, said £1.9m had been awarded to businesses across the region in the last year.
She said: 'We're excited to continue to act as the intelligence resource for businesses and represent the wonderful variety of businesses and industries we have across the South Midlands.'
Milton Keynes leader Pete Marland said the councils were 'proud to be leading the way and delivering for our businesses'
He added: 'We cannot be complacent, and this partnership shows our collective motivation to boost the region's economic prospects, improve skills and support young people into work.'
