Chambers and Netcom Training join forces to investigate region’s digital skills gap

The region’s three Chambers of Commerce are joining forces with Netcom Training to investigate digital skills gaps in the West Midlands.

Research by the Business Commission West Midlands found that in 2024, 52 per cent of firms were expecting to increase their investment in technology and artificial intelligence, with AI and digitisation identified as one of five key levers for economic growth.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, Coventry and Warwickshire Chambers of Commerce and Black Country Chambers of Commerce are now working with Netcom Training to investigate this further.

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 to overcome barriers.

The Chambers will be looking to gather insights on these topics through the upcoming Quarterly Business Report surveying, 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 this year.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO at Greater Birmingham Chambers 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 (pictured), 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.”

GBCC’s next Quarterly Business Report survey launches on 10 February, 2025.

Contact Gemma Dilkes at the GBCC to register your interest in participating in one of the upcoming focus groups.