Mission Two
Thriving, investment‑ready with a growing economy
Our second mission is to make Bolton a thriving, investment-ready borough with a growing economy. Attracting investment, fostering job creation, and upskilling our residents are central to this mission.
Inward investment Business growth Skills
As one of the largest towns in Europe, we have the confidence to think big and offer big opportunities. This mission focuses on creating a business‑friendly environment, supporting businesses to grow, and reducing barriers between residents and skill opportunities.
What success looks like
An increase in inward investment
By 2030
- There is an increase in inward investment, including key sectors like manufacturing, logistics and healthcare.
By 2035
- Bolton becomes a hub for investment with a focus on sustainable and high-value industries.
By 2040
- Bolton is a recognised investment hub in Greater Manchester.
More businesses with a diverse range of jobs in Bolton
By 2030
- There is a creation of new jobs (mix of entry‑level and skilled roles) in sectors like advantaged manufacturing, logistics and healthcare.
By 2035
- Bolton has a growing and more resilient business market with an increase in the total cumulative of jobs including higher skilled job roles.
By 2040
- Bolton has a significant portion of new jobs in high‑value industries and is an established economic player in the region with a thriving ecosystem.
A skilled Bolton workforce
By 2030
- More targeted programmes in place, particularly in growth industries to begin addressing skills gaps in the borough.
By 2035
- Boltons unemployment rate and economic inactivity has dropped closer to the national average driven by a skilled and adaptable workforce.
By 2040
- No resident is left behind due to a lack of skills, with comprehensive support in place for all demographics.
How we’ll deliver it
- Advance a high‑quality inward investment pipeline across towns and growth locations.
- Make Bolton easy to do business in by unlocking sites, streamlining processes, and supporting startups/SMEs.
- Expand employer‑led skills pathways aligned to growth sectors.
- Improve transport and digital connectivity to widen access to jobs and training.
- Promote Bolton’s strengths with a clear, confident economic story.
Programmes & initiatives
Investment & Sites
Pipeline development, strategic sites, and investor servicing to land high‑value projects.
Business Growth & Jobs
SME support, scale‑up services, and sector development to diversify and grow job opportunities.
Skills & Progression Pathways
Employer‑led training, careers routes, and re‑/up‑skilling aligned to priority sectors.
Who we’ll work with
Businesses & investors Colleges & training providers GMCA & transport partners Landowners & developers Growth hubs & sector bodies
Downloads
Bolton2040 Thriving Graphics Pack
Visuals to use as part of the Thriving mission segment (Mission 2).
Download
Bolton Vision