In 1988 a unique partnership was formed to address the challenge and opportunities of nature conservation in the industrial environment. Led by ICI plc (and subsequent outstanding support from Teesside industry), fully supported by English Nature and endorsed by the CBI an INCA was established on Teesside. Still flourishing, the Teesside INCA has demonstrated the success and benefit of a neutral and independent organisation aiding the integration of business development and nature conservation.

The need for such an organisation as INCA in the Humber region was prompted in 2000 when it was announced that the Humber Estuary was likely to be designated a 'Special Area of Conservation'.

The designation process sharply identified the gap in perceptions between the environment and economic development sectors, yet all agreed on the unique place that the Humber has in the future of the Yorkshire and Humber Region's economic and social prosperity. It was concluded that a support system needed to be put in place to ensure that development activities would continue, but in partnership with the environmental organisations.

The concept of a Humber INCA was born.