Department for Transport pledges continued support to SMEs
The Department for Transport’s (DfT) SME Action Plan, updated this month includes plans to break down barriers for smaller firms bidding for government contracts, as well as pledging one third of the Department for Transport’s procurement budget to SMEs.
Details of projects that benefited from a share of the £700,000 Transport Technology Research Innovation Grants (T-TRIG) included in the initial SME Action Plan featured; an app to improve communication and passenger experience for people using sign language, as well as a system providing live electric charge point information for electric private hire vehicles.
Find out more about the recent updates and the DfT SME Action Plan
Ordnance Survey and HM Land Registry Support Programme for Start-Ups
If your business uses location or land and property data in its products the Geovation Programme could be a route to receive funding, business support and the strategic backing of Ordnance Survey and HM Land Registry.
The Geovation Programme is designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises, start-ups and individuals and has a closing date of Monday 27 August. The resource available from the two organisations and industry links has been described by past successful applicants as “life-changing” and “priceless.” As well as funding of up to £20,000 the industry links and expertise on offer creates a valuable in-road and exceptional potential to develop and grow.
Details of the Geovation Programme opportunity
Hinkley Point C links with local business
The project has highlighted a commitment to create a robust supply chain incorporating international, national and local firms. So far, more than 4,000 local businesses have registered their interest, and South West contracts signed so far have a combined value of £465 million.
Working with local Chambers of Commerce the project is working to make it easy for businesses to find out about, and apply for supplier opportunities. Further details can be found at the EDF Energy site.
Information for suppliers and local businesses
South West Business Expo
Have you signed up yet? With an aim to bring South West businesses together and to help the region prosper and grow, the South West Business Expo offers the chance to network, gain free business advice and support from some key organisations and business speakers.
New for 2018 is the introduction of Technology and Digital Theatres, accommodating a programme of key speaker presentations. There will also be a Business Hub designed for businesses to post messages in order to find organisations that can help or fulfil a business challenge.
The event expects over 260 exhibitors and up to 3,000 delegates to attend making this an event well worth adding to your calendar.
Somerset Business Show
For the fourth event, the show will be taking place at Wellspring Leisure Centre. The Somerset Business Show has been releasing details of the keynote speakers attending the event.
The Business Show offers the chance to meet contacts, secure new suppliers, new prospects as well as to hear from some of the area’s leading industry experts.
Find out more and read about the keynote speakers here
If you’re interested in further advice on funding opportunities or events, locally or nationally, please contact us.