Release date: 10 February 2026
West Sussex County Council, on behalf of the West Sussex Economic Growth Board, hosted a major innovation and growth event on 5 February at the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology in Crawley, bringing together businesses and research partners from some of the world’s most advanced technology sectors.
The event formed part of the wider programme of work led by the West Sussex Economic Growth Board, which aims to strengthen high-value industries and support long-term economic prosperity across the county.
The roundtable brought together local businesses working in rapidly evolving technologies such as digital and A.I., sensors, photonics and advanced electronics, alongside representatives from the public sector, two local universities and local support organisations. Together, they explored business ambitions, identified growth opportunities and discussed the pathways and partnerships that would best support strategically significant, enabling technology companies in West Sussex.
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.