Businesses across northern Devon are being invited to a special event where they can find out how they can be involved in opportunities arising from a key review of Britain's defences.

The Northern Devon Defence Event is being held at RMB Chivenor on Thursday, 13 November, from 10am until 3pm.

The event is an exciting opportunity for businesses to understand the implications of the Ministry of Defence's Strategic Defence Review and how to engage with procurement opportunities.

North Devon MP and Defence Committee member Ian Roome will open the event, followed by Ministry of Defence colleagues covering business support, procurement processes and advances in innovation. Successful defence suppliers will give case studies, and there will be a range of information stands aimed at supporting small businesses in defence procurement.

The event is being organised in partnership between North Devon Council, Torridge District Council and Naval Regional Command Wales and Western England.

Councillor Malcolm Prowse, Lead Member for Regeneration and Economic Development at North Devon Council, said: "This event is a unique opportunity for local businesses to learn about new procurement pathways and discover how they can play a vital role in the UK’s future security and economic growth as a result of the Strategic Defence Review. We are proud to be partners at this event, ensuring our region’s enterprises are ready to seize these opportunities and help drive innovation and jobs in northern Devon.”

Councillor Bob Hicks, Lead Member for Economy and Estates at Torridge District Council, said: “This is a fantastic way for local businesses to hear and understand first-hand about how they can benefit from opportunities arising from the Strategic Defence Review.  Attendees can learn about the support available to help their business succeed with new defence procurement and contracting opportunities.  We hope this will provide a platform to help create new market opportunities and jobs, and boost prosperity across our region.”

The Strategic Defence Review was published in June. Its vision for UK defence includes 'Engine for Growth' as it drives jobs and prosperity through a new partnership with industry, procurement reforms and backing UK businesses.

Businesses can find out more and sign up to attend the Northern Devon Defence Event via Eventbrite.