Introduction David Ralph, HotSW LEP CEO
This month we have launched our new brand video highlighting some of the organisations and projects we support to drive prosperity, productivity and progress across the region. Do take a look and see who’s featured!
We have also received confirmation of a further year’s funding for the Heart of the South West Growth Hub delivery, and have used some local funding to continue the Thrive business support programme.
We were delighted to attend UKREiiF in Leeds to highlight and advocate our key investment opportunities that will help shape the future of the Heart of the South West, speaking to potential investors and business leaders about the exciting projects and developments happening across our patch.
Whilst we are in a state of transition, I am delighted to confirm the term extension of independent Board members David Bird and Richard Stevens, who I am pleased will be continuing their roles at the LEP until at least next year.
David Ralph
Chief Executive
Driving Prosperity, Productivity, and Progress in the Heart of the South West
Our new brand video highlights the region’s innovation hubs, organisations and businesses that that we have supported, which are helping contribute to our clean and inclusive growth ambitions.
Our video showcases organisations such as Plymouth Science Park, Exeter Science Park, Leonardo, EPIC, Gravity Smart Campus, Citybus, Yeovil College and the Centre for Future Clean Mobility. Watch now to find out how we are helping key partners to support the region
Transformational opportunities showcased at UKREiiF
On 16th – 18th May LEP representatives participated in the UK’s Real Estate Investment & Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) in Leeds, to present the region’s key opportunities to potential investors.
We delivered a panel discussion highlighting the region’s vast potential, showcasing a range of transformational projects that will shape the future of the area, including the Plymouth & South Devon Freeport, Smart Sound Plymouth, Gravity Smart Campus, and the Future Aviation Test Zone
Board members secure extended terms for smooth transition
Our members have agreed to amend the LEP’s Articles, to retain the skills and knowledge of private sector Board members for a further three years. As part of this, the terms of Board members David Bird and Richard Stevens have been extended.
By extending the terms of these accomplished private sector Board members, we are affirming our commitment to maintaining the valuable knowledge, experience, and leadership necessary to navigate the upcoming changes. This decision will aid in ensuring a smooth transition period, allowing us to focus on continuing to support local businesses and Government.
Apply for the King's Awards for Enterprise
Devon and Plymouth Chamber are holding an online event on how to apply for the King’s Awards for Enterprise. The event will be hosted by Mark Ansell, Deputy Lord Lieutenant and Richard Stevens, Former winner. and Deputy Lord Lieutenant on 8th June.
The event will guide guests on applying, top tips and the benefits of winning. The King’s Awards for Enterprise are open to applications from almost all businesses and non-profits, of almost all sizes throughout the UK in every sector. The 2024 Round opens on 6th May and closes 12th September.
Is your business ready to Thrive?
The Heart of the South West Growth Hub’s Thrive programme can support your business by offering free support on increasing turnover, growing your business, business planning, finance and much more.
The Thrive business support programme has now been extended until the end of July 2023. Offering 1-2-1 business support, Thrive offers fully-funded expert advice and tailored guidance to help support local businesses with growth, resilience, trade, marketing, recruitment, and more.
Spotlight on Digital Tech - Somerset
The Heart of the South West Growth Hub is holding a free ‘Spotlight on Digital Tech’ event on Tuesday 13th June at The Canalside Conference Centre in Bridgwater.
Whether you’re new to all things digital, would like to know more, or are confident with digital technology in your business, this free event will give you the insight you need to harness digital technologies to grow your business as well as connecting you to the right support to get you one step further.
Landscape Recovery Fund opens for applications
The second round of the Landscape Recovery Fund is now open for applications with funding of up to £750,000 for individual projects available. The fund will offer up to 25 of the highest scoring projects a place on the scheme.
Landscape Recovery funds long-term, large-scale, bespoke projects designed to enhance the natural environment and deliver significant environmental benefits. Applications close on 21 September 2023. Apply now.
Great South West to share update on ‘green and blue’ ambitions at Devon event
The Great South West is holding a series of regional events to share insights into its ambitions and progress. Following its first event in Taunton in March, the Partnership is holding an Exeter event on 16th June.
Local businesses, universities, colleges, and authorities are invited to attend the free event to discuss the next steps for the region’s journey.
Marine and maritime priorities presented at key event
The South West’s marine and maritime opportunities and challenges were presented at an event at the University of Exeter on 4th May. The event was held by Great South West and Maritime UK South West, to understand the priorities for the region’s marine and maritime economy.
Stakeholders including Princess Yachts, Cornwall Marine Network, Celtic Sea Power, and PML Applications came together to understand how the region can contribute to the Government’s key priorities, including increasing inward investment and exports, establishing the country as a science superpower, and transitioning to net zero.
