22/09/2026
Economics students showcase Norwich BID impact research at the Norwich BID City Conference
We were delighted to present the findings of a major socio-economic impact assessment of Norwich Business Improvement District (Norwich BID) at the Norwich BID City Conference. The conference brought together business leaders, policymakers, academics, and city-centre stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping the future of Norwich and its economy. It was nice to see Lucy Marks from Norfolk Network as well as Julie Schofield from RIN.
Working in partnership with Norwich BID, a team of Economics students undertook multiple research projects examining the organisation's contribution to tourism, city-centre events, business resilience, sustainability, talent attraction, safety, and economic development across Norwich city centre. Congratulations to Gerardo Figueroa Golarte, Fleur Elizabeth Philip, Manuka Girihagama, Mohammed Roomi and Thao Lai whose research formed the basis of the presentation and final impact report.
This project provided students with a valuable opportunity to apply economic analysis to real-world challenges while supporting evidence-based decision-making for an important local organisation. It also highlights the value of collaboration between the School of Economics and organisations across the region.
We would like to thank Norwich BID, Katia Bentley, Stefan Gurney, Michael Yates, Holly Bamford, and stakeholders who supported the project and contributed their time, expertise, and data.
Projects such as this demonstrate how student research can create meaningful impact beyond the classroom while helping students develop the analytical, research, and communication skills valued by employers.
