Insight

Once upon a time, funding a start-up business was done by using savings or getting a bank loan. Asking friends or family was the next port of call. Perhaps then an entrepreneur might consider pitching to an angel investor or venture capital firm. Dragons’ Den, anyone? Failing these options, and with the economic downturn causing many institutions to tighten their purse strings, it may be necessary to find alternative sources of funding to get a start-up off the ground.

Loose change. Shrapnel. Smash. Whatever you call it, it might soon be a thing of the past. The latest buzz in the payments industry is about how to transform the mobile phone into an everyday payment device capable of replacing traditional plastic cards or even cash. Card issuers and retailers, as well as unconventional players like mobile phone networks and retailers, are forging partnerships or becoming competitors for the first time. The constant rollout of new technologies in the area of communications, the growing saturation of the global mobile phone market and the increasing affordability of information technology and associated devices are allowing for the expansion of m-commerce. M-commerce now has the potential to revolutionise the way consumers do their shopping while allowing businesses to extend their marketing reach to a ready client base.

Holland is characterized by modern architecture, innovative design and enterprising buildings. The Netherlands is the most densely populated country in Europe, which means the Dutch have to be creative with their architecture and use of space; for homes, businesses and infrastructure. Situated on the western part of the Netherlands, Holland has a long tradition of modern, stimulating building style. Architecture in Holland has gained global recognition, mainly because it is innovative, resourceful and imaginative.

The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago has emerged as a Caribbean hub of culture and commerce, with its well-developed energy sector and vibrant festivals and music. In recent years there has been renewed dedication and commitment to the growth and development of the non-energy sectors of the economy by the Government of Trinidad and Tobago. Foreign Direct Investment is encouraged across all sectors with little restrictions to investment.

As the starters whistle fires at London’s Olympic and Paralympic Games, we explore exciting new opportunities for ambitious businesses and event organisers in this global city.

While the Eurozone debt storm rumbles on, London is working harder than ever to keep its economy thriving.

London doesn’t really need an introduction. The most visited city in the world is home to Big Ben, double-decker buses, the Queen, the Tube, Shoreditch hipsters, Sloane Rangers, Tower Bridge, pinstripe suits and bowler hats, Westminster Abbey, the Houses of Parliament and Trafalgar square. What lies behind London’s rise to glory is commerce. By the 10th century, London was England’s largest city and most important trading centre. By the 1700s, trading ships were arriving carrying all kinds of goods for sale in the City. Tea, silk and spices came from the Orient, sugar was brought from the Caribbean, timber came from Norway and iron ore arrived from Sweden. During the 19th century, London was transformed into the world’s largest city and the capital of the British Empire. Today, London is the world’s leading financial centre alongside New York City and is a leading global city, with the arts, commerce, education, entertainment, fashion, media, research and development, tourism and transport all contributing to its prominence.

Europe’s cities have the potential to kick-start green growth in Europe and improve quality of life for our citizens, but better partnerships with the European Commission and member states are needed.

Europe is facing a serious economic crisis. Public sector budgets are under severe pressure. Cities are having to cut staff and spending, but maintain services, which are more in demand than ever. Despite these difficult times, indeed because of them, we must find a model for renewed economic growth that does not further aggravate our climate and environment. As Lord Mayor of Copenhagen, I have put this at the heart of our city strategy. It is both possible and profitable for the EU to meet economic needs while advancing environmental priorities.