'Strategic Partnerships'

Event Report

January 1998

The first Fareham Technology Forum took place early in 1998 and was hosted by The Mayor of Fareham at the Civic Offices.

Over 20 leading technology based companies and community businesses attended and took advantage of the unique networking opportunity to meet with other senior managers in the sector. Leading companies such as Telsis, SOTEL and New Millennium Technologies met providers from the community IT sector and the local authority, representing a business community of over 2000 employees.

Guests received a short presentation from the Council's Economic Development Team on its policies and proposals toward adding value to the telecomms, IT and electronics sectors. The Council's Economic Development Officer, gave a key-note speech inviting guests to look upon Fareham Borough Council as a potential business partner, and gave a flavour of some of the projects the Council is itself networking in the area of IT, services delivery and business support.

The quality of the networking and extent of business done that night was great to see. As an example, four companies or organisations report potential deals and joint ventures that might net them £3M.

Mr Richard Needham, MD at Hi-Port Systems Ltd, wrote "I get little, if any, opportunity to meet and talk to like minded local business people ... within such an interesting group. At least two of my contacts seem very likely to be able to help the development of my business."

We can only conclude that regular opportunities to meet and build upon that synergy would be a valuable way forward for the sector and community. The Fareham Technology Forum has therefore been established by the Borough Council to enable and manage the initiative.

For further detailed information, or to book your place at an event please contact the Economic Development Officer, telephone 01329 236100 or e-mail economic.development@fareham.gov.uk.