Bradford's businesses will be exposed to markets across the world through the bid for European Capital of Culture status.

Heather Hancock, environment director for regeneration agency Yorkshire Forward, said: "Some people may have expressed surprise when Bradford announced its bid to become European Capital of Culture in 2008 - but these would be the same people who were doubtful when Glasgow became the first UK European City of Culture in 1990.

"As we now know, they were quickly proved wrong as Glasgow transformed itself into an internationally-recognised centre of culture and tourism, and gained a new investment platform on which to build further growth and prosperity.

"Yorkshire Forward is responsible for ensuring that the Regional Economic Strategy's target of delivering jobs and economic growth to Yorkshire and Humber, is achieved by 2010.

"We are all aware of what a competitive world we now live in. We need to compete globally in order to succeed.

"Bradford's bid to become European Capital of Culture can make a major contribution to this goal.

"Bradford's success will roll out real economic benefits to the surrounding areas and the wider region.

"We can be sure that people who visit the cultural attractions of Bradford will take the opportunity to visit other venues and destinations across the region, helping establish them more firmly on the international map.

"The impact on the tourism industry of foot and mouth disease last year highlighted the contribution tourism makes to the regional economy. Bradford's bid will help to highlight unrealised potential.

"We have always recognised the attraction of the Dales, and our traditional 'historic' towns, but we are now to beginning to show greater appreciation to our industrial heritage - as shown by the granting of World Heritage Status to Saltaire last year.

"The fact that Bradford is home to internationally-recognised museums, galleries, and architecture make it the worthy candidate for this prize.

"But just as important, is the fact that it is home to many different communities, and a vibrant community arts scene, which give the city and its people a truly international outlook.

"It is not only tourism that brings economic benefit to Bradford and to the wider region.

"The role of cultural and creative industries in the regional economy is becoming increasingly important.

"Yorkshire and Humber is rightly becoming recognised as the largest centre for creative industries outside London.

"This is well reflected in the themes proposed for the Bradford bid, particularly 'Textiles to Telecoms'.

"It is no coincidence that Yorkshire Forward has chosen digital industries as one its high-growth clusters - industries with the most potential to create new jobs and growth over the coming years. Bradford's bid will encourage other high-technology businesses to invest in our region in an environment in which they can thrive.

"Yorkshire Forward supports Bradford's bid, both for the economic benefits it will produce, and also for the fantastic cultural opportunities it will provide for everyone within the region.

"Three of our greatest assets as a region are our diverse communities, our diverse environment, and our quality of life, making Yorkshire and Humber a place which people are proud to be part of.

"The Bradford bid reflects all these qualities. We are proud to support it and wish 'good luck' to all involved."