LEPs set to showcase Midlands’ cyber security expertise to global audience

MIDLANDS’ LEPs are preparing to showcase the region’s best cyber security expertise to a global audience in an attempt to organise a major international summit on the issue.

Delegates from the Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, together with the Marches LEP, in partnership with the Department for International Trade (DIT) and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, are jetting out to Baltimore, Maryland in October to take part in a global cyber security conference.

They are currently putting the finishing touches to a programme which would include a return event in Worcestershire during the spring of 2017.

The various partners are now chasing firms from across the Midlands Engine region willing to participate in the Maryland event.

Linda Smith, Director of International Trade at Herefordshire & Worcestershire Chamber of Commerce, said: “This really is a fantastic opportunity for businesses across the Midlands to build strong relations with a thriving international market.

“With the opportunity to participate in networking and business development opportunities at the CyberMaryland Conference 2016, companies will be able to grow their presence in an internationally-renowned cyber area.”

The mission, which takes place from 18-22 October 2016, is designed to help companies from across the Midlands make contacts within US organisations and create long-term partnerships.

The mission includes the CyberMaryland Conference 2016, which will offer the companies a range of networking and business development opportunities.

Maryland is recognised as a cyber-security leader both nationally and internationally, with the world’s largest concentrations of cyber security companies. The headquarters of the US National Security Agency is at Fort Meade and some of the world’s largest IT and cyber security firms are located there as well as many of the most successful modern cyber innovation companies.

In addition, there are five universities, each designated as centres of excellence in cyber education and research, together with several leading hi-tech and cyber security incubators and accelerators.

Those interested in participating in the mission should email enquiries@wlep.co.uk to express an interest. Applications must be returned by close of business on Monday (August 22).