High-profile Government strategy to unlock the potential for faster economic growth in the North of England and close the £30 billion output gap between the northern region and the rest of the country. Comprises the three northern Regional Development Agencies and focuses on creating more jobs, investment and opportunities for the 15 million people living in these regions.Further information » www.thenorthernway.co.uk 

Sub-group of a Local Strategic Partnership that relates to issues such as crime or education.

Research organisation that provides services to the government and other organisations. The Institute for Public Policy Research is an example of a think tank.

These are non-statutory organisations which exist to provide goods/services to certain groups of people. The third sector receives funding from a variety of sources including grants, donations, fundraising and sponsorship, and is comprised of registered charities and other organisations. This is often referred to as the voluntary and community sector.Further informationPublished by the Cabinet Office in December 2007, The Future Role of the Third Sector in Social and Economic Regeneration: Final report summarises the Government's plans for engaging the third sector in social and economic regeneration. Third Sector Strategy for Communities and Local Government was published in June 2007 and sets out how the government intends to make the Department for Communities and Local Government better at engaging with the third sector, enabling it to be an effective local partner.» Department for Communities and Local Government» Office of the Third Sector

Team of businesses, traders and local authorities that oversee and maintain the retail environment.Further information» Association of Town Centre Management 

Action plan to encourage growth of services and amenities through partnership with local authorities and other organisations.

Business activity that results in commercial profit as well as social and environmental benefits.

The EU troika is a group that represents the European Commission and the current and future Presidencies of the European Council, on behalf of the European Union as a whole.