The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) was a UK government department created to drive economic growth by supporting businesses, fostering innovation, and enhancing skills development. Although it was replaced by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) in 2016, BIS played a crucial role in shaping the UK’s economic policies.
Historical Context
BIS was formed in June 2009 by merging the Department for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS) and the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform (BERR). The aim was to streamline operations and create a more focused approach towards economic growth, technological advancement, and educational excellence.
Functions and Key Areas
Business Support
BIS provided comprehensive support to businesses through:
- Funding and Grants: Financial aid for startups and existing businesses.
- Regulatory Framework: Implementing policies to foster a conducive business environment.
- Export and Trade: Assisting businesses in expanding their markets internationally.
Innovation
The department promoted innovation by:
- Research and Development: Funding scientific research and technological advancements.
- Intellectual Property: Offering support to protect intellectual property rights.
Skills Development
BIS enhanced skills through:
- Vocational Training: Promoting apprenticeships and other training programs.
- Higher Education: Collaborating with universities to align curricula with industry needs.
Key Events
- 2009: Formation of BIS by merging DIUS and BERR.
- 2010-2015: Implementation of various policies and funding programs to support SMEs and startups.
- 2016: BIS was replaced by BEIS to include a broader mandate encompassing energy and industrial strategy.
Organizational Structure
graph LR
A(BIS) --> B(Business Support)
A --> C(Innovation)
A --> D(Skills Development)
B --> E(Funding and Grants)
B --> F(Regulatory Framework)
B --> G(Export and Trade)
C --> H(Research and Development)
C --> I(Intellectual Property)
D --> J(Vocational Training)
D --> K(Higher Education)
Importance and Applicability
- Economic Growth: BIS initiatives were pivotal in promoting economic growth.
- Employment: Skills programs helped reduce unemployment by making the workforce more adaptable.
- Innovation: Fostered a culture of innovation, which is crucial for competitive advantage.
Examples
- Innovate UK: An agency under BIS that supported various innovative projects.
- Apprenticeship Schemes: Programs aimed at providing practical skills to young people.
Considerations
When assessing the impact of BIS:
- Economic Indicators: Evaluating changes in GDP, employment rates, and business formation rates.
- Policy Outcomes: Reviewing the effectiveness of policies in fostering innovation and skill development.
Related Terms
- Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS): The successor to BIS with an expanded role.
- Startups: New business ventures that BIS aimed to support.
- Apprenticeships: Training programs sponsored by BIS.
Comparisons
- DIUS vs BIS: DIUS focused mainly on education, while BIS had a broader economic mandate.
- BERR vs BIS: BERR dealt with business regulations; BIS expanded to include innovation and skills.
Interesting Facts
- Green Investment Bank: Established under BIS to fund sustainable projects.
- First UK Spaceport: BIS had initiatives supporting the aerospace industry, including spaceport development.
Inspirational Stories
- Small Business Growth: Numerous small businesses flourished due to BIS funding and support.
- Innovative Breakthroughs: Several groundbreaking technologies emerged from BIS-funded research.
Famous Quotes
- “Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.” – Steve Jobs
Proverbs and Clichés
- Proverb: “Necessity is the mother of invention.”
- Cliché: “The sky’s the limit.”
Jargon and Slang
FAQs
Q: What happened to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills?
A: BIS was replaced by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) in 2016.
Q: What were the main functions of BIS?
A: Supporting businesses, fostering innovation, and enhancing skills development.
Q: How did BIS support businesses?
A: Through funding, regulatory support, and trade assistance.
References
- UK Government Archives on BIS
- Various economic reports and academic papers analyzing BIS’s impact
Summary
The Department for Business, Innovation and Skills (BIS) was a crucial entity in the UK’s economic landscape, promoting business growth, fostering innovation, and enhancing skills. Although replaced by BEIS, the legacy of BIS continues to influence contemporary economic strategies and policies.
