Our Sectors

A dynamic region powering business success locally, nationally, and globally

Working across every major industry, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, and Stamford stand out as one of the UK’s most dynamic and productive economies. Generating over £32bn in output and employing more than 431,000 people, the region is a net contributor to the UK Treasury and recognised worldwide for its cutting-edge innovation, powered by the University of Cambridge and its global network of institutes. Home to Europe’s largest biotech cluster outside London and ranked Europe’s #5 small city for Foreign Direct Investment, our economy combines local impact with global reach.

The Local Growth Plan outlines the region’s plans to accelerate economic growth in Cambridgeshire & Peterborough.

Our regions sector strategy focuses on six priority sectors where the region holds unique strengths and major opportunities for growth. Together, these industries attract worldwide investment, generate high-value jobs, and keep our region at the forefront of fast-changing global markets.

To ensure the region has the talent pipeline for the future, the Chamber works in close partnership with the CPCA to deliver the Local Skills Improvement Plan.

Life Sciences

Europe’s largest life sciences cluster, with 54,000 people employed, global HQs including AstraZeneca, and annual deals worth over $22.5bn, driving world-class innovation in genomics, diagnostics, and biotechnology.

Green Tech

Over 42,000 employed in net zero and sustainable industries, with leaders like Johnson Matthey and Gen Phoenix delivering world-first innovations and exporting solutions worldwide.

Advanced Manufacturing

22,000 high-value jobs supported by global names such as Perkins Engines and Marshall Aerospace, delivering precision engineering and aerospace excellence.

Agri-Food & Agri-Tech

More than 16,000 people across 300+ companies, from British Sugar and Produce World to innovators like the National Institute of Agricultural Botany (NIAB) and Outfield Technologies, combining large-scale food production with agri-tech breakthroughs.

Digital & IT

One in 11 workers in digital roles, with more than 2,800 Cambridge Cluster companies and global leaders such as ARM, Darktrace, Raspberry Pi, and Frontier Developments shaping the future of tech.

Defence

Thousands of high-value jobs supported by RAF Wyton, a strong supplier network, and Thermoteknix, which employs over 2,000 people and leads in global aircraft engineering and maintenance.