Business South takes pride in its pivotal role as a catalyst for economic prosperity in the Central South. Guided by our core values, we orchestrate collaborations between business leaders, educators, and public bodies to drive innovative projects and initiatives. Each activity we undertake aims to uplift the business environment and foster unparalleled growth opportunities in the region.

Devolution for Hampshire & the Solent

In May 2026 a regional Mayor will be elected to head up a new Strategic Authority across the region.

Over the course of 2025, Business South and all our Action Groups, representing over 150 champion organisations, across all sectors of the economy, have developed a paper entitled Priorities for Good Growth.

The paper identifies four main areas we feel should be priorities for the new mayor and has been shared with mayoral candidates in the run-up to the election. The paper is endorsed by Hampshire Chamber of Commerce and other business groups.