The unique character of this city is shaped by a special combination of cultural diversity and dynamic economic growth. Both of these advantages stem from the city’s favourable geographical location – Bialystok is situated just 50 km from the border with Belarus. The many visiting foreign tourists help to underpin the city’s commercial potential. Białystok also boasts a solid academic sector. More than 40 thousand students combine to provide the city with significant purchasing power. The economic potential of the city is further enhanced by its demographic structure – over a half of its inhabitants is less than 40 years old.