West Sussex Economic Growth Board hosts tech sectors to boost regional growth

Businesses from across West Sussex’s fast-growing tech sector have come together for a major innovation roundtable.

The event was hosted by West Sussex County Council on behalf of the West Sussex Economic Growth Board, at the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology in Crawley.

It brought together firms working in digital and A.I. technologies, sensors and advanced electronics, alongside universities and support organisations.

The event also gathered feedback on the range of support that businesses need to achieve their goals and highlighted areas where challenges to growth exist. Networking, knowledge-sharing and community-building were central to the session, helping to strengthen the county’s emerging technology clusters. 

The Interim Chair of the West Sussex Economic Growth Board and Leader of West Sussex County Council, Cllr Paul Marshall, attended and delivered the opening speech, with Cllr Garry Wall, Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, also joining discussions with industry representatives. 

Cllr Marshall said: “Supporting enabling technology sectors to thrive in West Sussex is vital to our economic future. They create well-paid jobs, retain talent in the county and provide the technologies that support so many other important industries. 

“We are still in the foothills of a technology revolution and by understanding the needs of our businesses and the barriers they face, we can help them grow and innovate. 

“Today’s roundtable has been an important opportunity to share experiences, strengthen partnerships and ensure West Sussex is well placed to embrace the opportunities of emerging technologies and the businesses that deliver them.” 

He also reflected on the wider economic context, acknowledging the challenging trading conditions faced by businesses and the pressures on local government. However, he highlighted that the evolving local government landscape, including the establishment of a Mayoral Authority for Sussex, presents new opportunities to set shared priorities and work more closely with central government to deliver targeted support for growth and innovation. 

Cllr Garry Wall, Cabinet Member for Economy and Skills, added: “Supporting high-potential business sectors is a key priority in our Council Plan, along with fostering the partnerships that will help us build a future-ready economy. 

“By bringing industry leaders and research partners together, this event has deepened collaboration, encouraged investment and helped create the conditions for quality career opportunities for our residents.” 

The session contributed to the Economic Growth Board’s ongoing work to champion innovation, boost business competitiveness and ensure West Sussex remains a leading location for advanced technology industries. 

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