SW business conference’s focus on growth
Organisers for one of the south west’s flagship business conference events explains its focus is on how the region can help to drive national growth and innovation. The Great South West Annual Conference is set to return to Exeter in October.
The Great South West Partnership says the event will showcase how the region is delivering for the UK economy. The event is taking place on Friday 17 October at Sandy Park, Exeter.
The conference theme is centred around ‘Leading the delivery of the UK’s Industrial Strategy.’ It’s set to position the region as an industrial powerhouse which organisers say is critical to the Government’s economic growth ambitions.
They add that the area is one of the country’s most important regions for clean energy, defence, advanced manufacturing, agri-tech and innovation.
‘The new Industrial Strategy sets out a bold vision for the UK, and this conference will show how the Great South West is already the leader in many of the Government’s ambitions,’ says Karl Tucker, Chair of the Great South West Partnership.
‘With world-class capabilities in clean energy, defence, digital, agritech and advanced manufacturing, this region is a blueprint for industrial delivery.’
‘We’re looking forward to hosting leaders from across the country to showcase how the Great South West can help drive national growth, resilience and innovation, in what is set to be the most important convening of regional and national leaders outside London this year.’

This year’s conference theme is centred around ‘Leading the delivery of the UK’s Industrial Strategy.’ Image provided by Program.
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Last year’s conference brought together more than 500 delegates, including Ministers, investors and business leaders.
This year’s programme is expected to include a keynote speech from a Government Minister, and discussion panels with regional MPs.
National economic, business experts and regional leaders will also be on hand to talk about the state of the UK economy and the South West’s strategic role.
Breakout sessions aim to offer insights into key pillars of industrial growth, including workforce and skills development alongside discussions around attracting international investment into the region.


