Microsoft boost for region
One of Microsoft's top dogs has jetted in from the United States to talk about how new technology could create more than 160,000 jobs in the Black Country.
Microsoft director Akhtar Badshah paid a flying visit to unveil a three-year link-up with the Black Country Consortium worth £14million.
The investment is aimed at developing computer skills in schools, community groups and small businesses to help the Black Country move away from heavy industry and become a technology capital.
Up to 35,000 learners will benefit from start-up courses using the latest equipment, and four Microsoft Academies are in the pipeline for the region.
Mr Badshah, who met council and business leaders and was given a tour of Dudley, said the partnership was "revolutionary".
He added: "My first impressions of the Black Country are of a region in transition. I looked out of my hotel window onto the canal waterfront and saw the redevelopments that have taken place there.
"That's very impressive and there's a tremendous amount of creativity happening in this area.
"It's not just a pipe dream; there's a road map and a plan for strategic investment, and we believe this is ready to take place.
"If we can find and nurture this here, then it will be world news. Very senior people in Microsoft are watching this partnership with a keen eye."
