A number of tech businesses from across Cornwall and the south west have been selected to take part in special virtual trade missions to the US, India and Singapore.
The Department for International Trade (DIT) in partnership with Business West, the DIT’s regional delivery partner in the south west, has chosen 47 companies in the region to take part in the trade missions which get underway on March 8.
The Minister for International Trade, Graham Stuart who attended the virtual launch of the initiative said: “Using technology to allow fantastic UK solution providers to help people around the world is an inspiring thing to be part of – even as we negotiate trade deals to cut the barriers to trade.
“The Tech 4 Good South West Initiative uses Government convening power to allow even small tech companies in the south west to reach global markets in a way which, frankly, before the pandemic, might not have been possible.
“We are determined to use every tool we have to help innovative UK firms grow their international sales, help the end customer and create opportunity and jobs in the south west and elsewhere.”
The new Tech 4 Good South West initiative offers selected companies a series of virtual masterclasses, commercial meetings, and networking events, culminating in the opportunity to showcase their technology to key players in the US, India, and Singapore.
Delivered by DIT market specialists Ameeta Virk and Sarah Hildersley, the free export initiative will offer the opportunity for selected companies to understand the tech landscape, develop their export strategy and participate in virtual sales meetings in these fast-growing markets.
Olivia Champion, founder and CEO of Penryn-based Entec Nutrition, a developer of sustainable insect-based feed solutions for use in aquaculture and poultry feed, said: “We hope to gain a sound understanding of India’s prawn and shrimp markets and make some valuable contacts, as well as improving our understanding of the legal requirements for exporting to India.
“DIT has been extremely helpful, taking the time to understand the position of our business and our needs and have even signposted additional support that we may be eligible for in terms of exploring international markets.”
