Somerset’s economy will be in the spotlight in September when the Invest Somerset Showcase 2025 takes place, highlighting the county as a dynamic and thriving place for business and investment.
Taking place over three weeks in September, the showcase puts the spotlight on the key growth and innovation opportunities within the new Somerset Economic Prosperity Strategy 2025-45, highlighting the county’s key growth sectors, investment activities, as well as business support and innovation opportunities.
The Somerset Economic Growth Board, a partnership between business, business representative organisations, colleges, and Somerset Council, has helped shape the Strategy. The Board provides the ‘business voice’ into the Council and helps inform economic development plans and activities.
The series of events are open to all businesses and stakeholders in Somerset’s future economic growth and are being delivered in partnership with:
- South West Manufacturing Advisory Service (SWMAS),
- Tech South West,
- Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce,
- Leonardo,
- Yeovil College and
- other partners across Somerset.
Councillor Mike Rigby, Lead Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, said:
The events are a must for any Somerset business, offering the chance to meet with like-minded people, learn more about growth and innovation and discover the range of business support available from Somerset Council.
Harry Singer, who chairs the Somerset Economic Growth Board that has helped shape the Strategy, said:
I’m excited – Somerset has a real opportunity to lead the UK in low-carbon energy, while also leaning into our strengths in aerospace, defence, high-value manufacturing, and digital.
These events will showcase our capabilities and bring together businesses, investors, and stakeholders to elevate Somerset’s economic trajectory.
Those planning to attend need to book a place. Only one event is by invitation only.
The showcase sessions are:
- 2 September: Low Carbon Energy, Somerset County Cricket Club Taunton. Organised by SWMAS, this full-day event will highlight the range of low carbon opportunities across the South West and showcase the activities of of the Somerset Energy Innovation Centre.
- 10 September: Upskilling, Reskilling, and Recruitment, Victoria Park community centre, Bridgwater. Organised with Sedgemoor Chamber of Commerce, this morning event will focus on workforce opportunities and promoting the Connect to Work programme. Learn about opportunities and support available – including how to tap into the hidden workforce.
- 11 September: Boosting SMEs and VCSEs, Council Offices, Shepton Mallet. Expert-led sessions designed to supercharge your business or VCSE—from growth boosting digital AI tools and high-impact free business support programmes, to building workforce skills and scaling your business with real success stories.
- 16 September: Aerospace and High-Value Manufacturing (invitation only), iAero, Yeovil. The event will demonstrate Somerset’s key advances and opportunities in aerospace and high-value manufacturing.
- 24 September: Digital and Data, Firepool Centre for Digital Innovation, Taunton. The event will bring together business leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs to explore how data, AI, and digital infrastructure can drive growth across the region. Attendees will gain access to expert insights, funding opportunities, and cutting-edge tech solutions, tailored to Somerset’s evolving digital economy.
More is available on the Council’s Invest Somerset page.
