West’s technology sector under the microscope

A MAJOR research project has been launched to analyse the scale of growth, impact and emerging opportunities across the South West’s tech sector.

As the fastest growing sector in the South West, the tech sector generates more than £2.5bn per year in the region and employs more than 75,000 people and now Tech South West has appointed strategy consultants and tech insight experts Whitecap Consulting to deliver a far-reaching project.

Headline partner Deloitte will work alongside Tech South West and Whitecap, including for the launch of the report in early spring 2022, with the University of Exeter, NatWest, Censornet and Astley Media confirmed as supporting partners. Data and insight from across the sector will be gathered, combining national and regional sources including key economic information.

At its heart will be analysis, case studies and recommendations for the South West on how to maximise opportunities and tackle some of the challenges facing the sector, including funding and talent concerns.

Dan Pritchard, co-founder of Tech South West, said: “This ground-breaking report will help us understand the scale of the tech sector in the South West, and the contribution it makes to the economy and society, from Environmental Tech to AI. Crucially, it will provide data to understand the challenges we face and need to address; be that infrastructure, talent and skills, funding or investment.

“We’re delighted to be working with Whitecap Consulting, who have a strong track record of insightful research in this area, and to have such high-calibre partners who will be providing additional support and expertise.”

David Tansley, vice chair and a consulting partner at Deloitte in the South West, said: “Technology continues to change at pace, but we must ensure that the growth and prosperity catalysed in this fast-moving sector is inclusive and creates opportunities for everyone in our society.”