Event Brief This workshop aims to support Lancashire's cyber SMEs by exploring practical routes into procurement, innovation funding and larger collaborative opportunities. Building on insights from last year's regional roundtables, the session brings together expert speakers for lightning talks on public‑sector procurement, government innovation pathways and consortium‑based approaches, followed by focused roundtable discussions and networking. Hosted at EIC, University of Lancashire, it's designed to help SMEs strengthen their readiness and position themselves for growth within the region's expanding cyber ecosystem. Event background
Early last year, Plexal and Northern Reach delivered a series of industry roundtables on behalf of Lancashire County Council to explore the needs of the region's cyber ecosystem ahead of the arrival of the National Cyber Force. These conversations highlighted key challenges and priorities for SMEs. This workshop builds on those insights, focusing on practical next steps to help businesses strengthen their cyber readiness and develop the skills needed to operate confidently in a growing cyber landscape.
Open to SMEs across Lancashire, the session will be hosted at Lancaster University, a globally recognised centre for cyber research and education. This session will take place at the EIC, University of Lancashire. Full details to be sent closer to the time. If there are any questions/concerns regarding this event, please reach out to Alliah.rust@plexal.com
AGENDA
09:30 - 09:45 - Arrivals, Welcome & Introductions Overview of the session, aims, and format.
09:45 - 10:05 - Lightning Talk 1 Public sector procurement landscape for cyber SMEs.
10:05 - 10:25 - Lightning Talk 2 Routes into government innovation and early‑stage procurement.
10:25 - 10:45 - Lightning Talk 3 Collaborative and consortium‑based approaches to accessing larger opportunities.
10:45 - 11:00 - Comfort break
11:00 - 12:00 - Focused Roundtable Discussions
12:00 - 12:15 - Closing Reflections & Next Steps
12:15 - 1pm - Close/Networking Lunch Speakers to be announced shortly!
Reserve your spot today to join us for this extremely informative and interactive session!
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