Posted on:
19th August, 2024
Dorset business leaders help SMEs diversify into defence and security sector
Big defence programmes like AUKUS (Australia, United Kingdom and United States) and Tempest, (the Global Combat Air Programme) offer huge opportunities for supply chain SMEs who are being offered the chance to learn more.
Dorset LEP business leaders are helping deliver a programme that is supporting small and medium sized businesses, especially in the supply chain, to diversify into the rapidly growing defence sector which presents significant opportunities for businesses with the right capabilities, innovative products and services.
Through developing a cluster of local businesses with the right potential, the programme will provide a number of fully funded events and focussed briefings that will:
- Highlight opportunities across the defence sector.
- Understand the supply chain requirements and future procurement opportunities.
- Hear first-hand case evidence from customers and suppliers about their defence journey.
- Collaborate and connect with wider stakeholders and primes.
- Signpost SME businesses to other support organisations in this growing sector.
The programme is delivered with the South West Manufacturing Advisory Service (SWMAS) who note the defence sector is experiencing significant growth with major opportunities such as; AUKUS, a $368bn tripartite deal between the US, Australia, and UK to acquire up to eight nuclear powered submarines, and; Tempest, a Global Combat Air Programme worth £30bn over 30 years.
Further details available here.
Notes to Eds.
Following the previous government’s announcement that responsibility for LEP functions would be transferred to upper tier authorities (where there was not yet a devolution pathway in place) from April 2024 – the government Guidance made clear that LEPs can continue as private companies either until a devolution deal is agreed for their area or in perpetuity, and Local Authorities can use their LEP as a vehicle for delivering the functions if they wish.
It was agreed that the Dorset LEP would continue delivering its functions for the financial year 2024/25. Following local elections and the General Election, the LEP board have formed a task and finish group which includes elected members from both councils to help determine how functions will be delivered from April 2025.
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