The Solent Summit, which will see the launch of the Solent Freeport and the Solent LEP's long term economic strategy to put the Solent firmly on the map, will be welcoming the inspirational Dee Caffari MBE to speak at the event today (Wednesday 8 June).
Rachael Randall, Chair of the Solent LEP, said: "As the first woman to have sailed single-handed and non-stop around the world in both directions, Dee is the ideal person to articulate the aspiration and ambition we have for the Solent and all those who live and work here."
"Like many coastal communities, the Solent faces challenges in terms of productivity and our Solent 2050 Strategy outlines how we will work with partners to level up our region, create jobs, drive innovation and ensure a prosperous economy where communities thrive."
Establishing a freeport in the Solent is a key component of the Solent 2050 long-term economic strategy. It will unlock billions of pounds' worth of investment, create tens of thousands of new jobs and play a critical role in achieving national levelling up ambitions.
Brian Johnson, Chair of the Solent Freeport, said: “The Solent Freeport is a once-in-a-generation opportunity which will benefit not only our region but the whole of the UK. The Solent’s location makes it the UK’s most important gateway to European and global markets; and establishing a freeport here will accelerate the creation of high-quality employment space, with investment specifically targeted at state-of-the-art growth sectors and ground-breaking approaches to decarbonisation and green innovation."
At the event, investors and businesses will be able to find out more about the opportunities available through the freeport and meet the partners involved. More locally, people from across the Solent will get the chance to understand the benefits it will bring to the region through innovation, job creation and investment opportunities.
The Solent Summit will also include a seminar programme for business leaders which supports the Solent 2050 strategy. Guests will be able to find out more about funding opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs, how the region's universities are the catalysts for unlocking high skilled jobs, the environmental and economic impact of the unique natural capital of the region; and how to connect the skills and talents of those in our communities to the benefits of economic prosperity.
The Solent Summit takes place on Wednesday 8 June at Horizon Cruise Terminal, Southampton.
A live stream will be available for those wishing to attend online. To watch the live event, follow this link on 8 June at 10am
More information about the event is available here.