In a significant move to enhance the competitiveness and growth of businesses across North Yorkshire, Data Stream has been selected by the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority to lead a groundbreaking initiative aimed at transforming local companies into data-driven powerhouses. This new partnership underscores the Combined Authority’s commitment to driving economic growth in the region by harnessing the power of data, artificial intelligence (AI), and automation technologies.

As businesses increasingly recognise the critical role that data plays in achieving strategic objectives, the Combined Authority has turned to Data Stream, a leading expert in data integration and AI solutions, to facilitate the widespread adoption of these technologies. This initiative is designed to equip businesses with the knowledge, tools, and strategies they need to leverage data effectively, ultimately fostering innovation, efficiency, and long-term success.

Proposed Workshops

Through this partnership, Data Stream will deliver a series of tailored workshops and one-on-one support sessions in collaboration with the York and North Yorkshire Growth Hub. These sessions are specifically designed to address the unique needs of businesses in the region, offering hands-on guidance that goes beyond generic talks and events. The program focuses on developing comprehensive data strategies that align with each company’s broader goals, ensuring that businesses can fully capitalise on the opportunities presented by data and AI.

“York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority has demonstrated a forward-thinking approach by recognising the importance of data fluency for business success in today’s digital economy,” said Elliot Fearn, Managing Director at Data Stream. “We are thrilled to partner with them in this crucial initiative. Our goal is to help local businesses not only adopt these technologies but also thrive by using data to drive better decisions, improve operational efficiency, and achieve their strategic objectives.”

How It Works

The initiative will kick off with an in-depth assessment of each participating business’s data infrastructure. Many companies face challenges due to fragmented systems that are not optimised for the strategic use of data. Data Stream will work closely with these businesses to reimagine their data infrastructure, ensuring it is both scalable and fit for purpose while minimising additional costs.

Beyond infrastructure, the program will focus on improving data quality and analysis. By identifying and capturing critical data points, Data Stream will help businesses make more informed, data-driven decisions that enhance their operational outcomes. The initiative also includes targeted training to upskill employees, ensuring they are fully equipped to utilise the new systems and contribute to the company’s data-driven culture.

A key aspect of the program is fostering a positive data culture within these organisations. Recognising that past challenges with technology adoption can lead to reluctance, Data Stream is taking a collaborative approach by involving stakeholders from the beginning. This ensures that the transformation process is guided by the insights and experiences of those who will be using the new systems, leading to greater buy-in and smoother implementation.

Security and compliance are also top priorities in this initiative. Data Stream will implement robust data governance practices to ensure that all data is securely managed and compliant with relevant regulations, while also being democratised among stakeholders to maximise its value.

How to Get Involved

The partnership between Data Stream and the York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority represents a significant investment in the future of the region’s businesses. By providing tailored, actionable strategies that empower businesses to harness the full potential of their data, this initiative is poised to drive substantial economic growth and innovation across North Yorkshire.

Businesses in the region are encouraged to participate in the program, which is set to roll out over the coming months. With many SMEs expected to benefit from this initiative by March 2025, the partnership promises to make a lasting impact on the region’s digital transformation and economic competitiveness.

For more information about the program or to register your interest, please contact Harriet Stainton or visit https://yorknorthyorks-ca.gov.uk/york-north-yorkshire-growth-hub-rolls-out-new-autumn-2024-programme-to-empower-local-businesses/