Yorkshire in Business [YIB] are proud to announce the launch of a feasibility study to assess the potential of a new cluster of micro makers and manufacturers for Scarborough & Filey. This is a Mayoral Combined Authority priority, headed by the local Enterprise Agency, Yorkshire in Business, which has been spearheading business support on the coast for the past 40 years, and we are inviting you to take part!

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Jenn Crowther, CEO of YI,B said: “This initiative is about championing the exceptional talent embedded in our coastal communities. Scarborough and its neighbouring areas are home to a remarkable concentration of innovative makers and niche manufacturers. Our goal is to unite these enterprises, providing the visibility, tailored support, and robust infrastructure required to fuel their growth and amplify their impact regionally and beyond.”

The study responds to dynamic economic trends transforming the Yorkshire Coast. Alongside Scarborough’s established industry, a thriving ecosystem of micro-manufacturers is emerging. This will encompass small makers, artisan producers, forward-thinking entrepreneurs, and advanced manufacturing start-ups. However, these businesses often remain isolated, lacking the cohesive networks, structured support, and shared resources needed to accelerate growth.

Marcus Thrall FCIM FISMM, Study Consultant, says, “The feasibility study will evaluate how a dedicated Makers & Micro-Manufacturing Cluster can catalyse the next phase of economic growth for the Yorkshire Coast. The study will analyse business requirements across talent development, flexible workspace, technological innovation, manufacturing capacity, supply chain integration, investment needs, and access to strategic support programmes such as the York & North Yorkshire Growth Hub and Combined Authority initiatives”

The vision is clear:

To establish a connected, future-oriented cluster that enables Scarborough’s makers and micro-manufacturers to scale with confidence, foster meaningful collaboration, and drive a resilient, innovative coastal economy.

Look out for exciting events such as the “Made on the Coast” mini conference, Quarterly Maker Clinics, digital and cyber workshops for small manufacturers, alongside the study exploring a dedicated innovation and manufacturing hub—a dynamic space designed to bring together makers, creatives, and micro-manufacturers.

To ensure the cluster is shaped by those it intends to serve, YIB will also host a series of networking events, surveys, and industry dialogues throughout the winter. All makers, micro-manufacturers, food producers, craft businesses, start-ups, engineering firms, and creative entrepreneurs—from solo enterprises to growing micro-factories—are strongly encouraged to participate and contribute their voices.

Yorkshire in Business urges all local makers and micro-manufacturers to engage with the study, share their perspectives, and help shape this transformative opportunity for the Yorkshire Coast.

For press enquiries or to participate in the study:

Email: [email protected]

Website: www.yorkshireinbusiness.org.uk