 CETUS, the Royal Navy’s first uncrewed submarine launched
The Royal Navy launched CETUS, its first Extra Large Underwater Autonomous Vehicle (XLUAV) technology demonstrator, in Plymouth this week. Designed and built from scratch, CETUS will be operated by the Submarine Delivery Agency’s Autonomy Unit (SDA-AU). The project will span six years, with the Navy planning to use CETUS for trials and experimentation until at least 2027.
 Plymouth chosen as home for new Finnish Honorary Consulate
Plymouth has been selected as the location for a new Finnish honorary consulate, further strengthening the city’s international connections.
The consulate will play an important role in developing opportunities for Finnish businesses and deepening cultural and economic ties between Finland and the UK in the south west of England. It will also offer support for the local Finnish community in the area.
National recognition for innovation through Skills Launchpad Plymouth
Plymouth City Council has been shortlisted for four Local Government Chronicle Awards for its innovative projects aimed at improving the lives of Plymouth residents. These projects include Supported Internships, Stirling Veterans’ Self Build Project, Plymouth’s Habitat Bank, and Skills Launchpad Plymouth. The awards celebrate councils that have used innovation to enhance services and achieve better outcomes for citizens amidst rising demand and inflationary pressures.
Milestone for Exclusively-for-Charter Autonomous Fleet as First USV Hits the Water
British SME ZeroUSV is advancing towards offering the world’s first charter fleet of fully autonomous uncrewed surface vessels with the launch of its inaugural Oceanus12 at Manor Marine in Portland, Dorset. The vessel is now ready for commissioning and integration trials from ZeroUSV’s home port of Plymouth, marking the culmination of nearly 18 months of design, engineering, and build effort, built on the success of the Mayflower 400’s transatlantic autonomous voyage through collaborations between ZeroUSV’s parent company MSubs, their non-profit Promare, and MarineAI.
Tech South West secured UK Government funding to expand the Growth Forge accelerator
The funding comes via the Barclays Eagle Labs Ecosystem Partnership Programme, funded by UK Government.
Applications are now open for the 2025 programme, which introduces three specialist growth tracks covering AI, MarineTech and CleanTech alongside its core offering.
Join a free webinar on Thursday 13 March to learn how Growth Forge can support your business in 2025.
 In our second episode of our short series of videos spotlighting Plymouth businesses we catch up with Karen Friendship, Managing Director of Aldermans.
Aldermans are one of the South West’s leading sheet metal fabricators. They have been in business in Plymouth for over 50 years and specialise in the contract manufacturing of metal parts and assemblies.
 Devon Chamber Quarterly Economic Survey
Contribute to the largest and most representative independent business survey in the UK.
The QES receives widespread local, national and international press coverage, and is briefed extensively across the UK government and Bank of England.
BridgeAI Investment Webinar
Join Digital Catapult on 12 March 2025, at 2pm for an online webinar offering insights and practical guidance on AI investment. Part of the Innovate UK BridgeAI programme, this event will explore various funding options, including grants, angel, and venture capital investments, highlighting their advantages and challenges.
The session will also cover essential fundraising documents like pitch decks and data rooms, providing practical tips for startups ready to scale in the AI innovation ecosystem.
Simpler Recycling Webinar for Manufacturing Industry
Join the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Make UK, WRAP, and the Environment Agency on 13 March 2025, at 10am for an online webinar. This event will provide a clear understanding of the new legislation requiring businesses and non-domestic premises to separate recycling and food waste from general waste, effective from 31 March 2025. Learn about the requirements and steps needed for the implementation of Simpler Recycling.
 Enterprise Nation Lunch and Learn: How to Master ChatGPT and Google Gemini
Shimron Walters will guide you on using ChatGPT and Google Gemini, comparing their strengths and weaknesses, and how to implement them in your workflow.
Date: 14 March 2025 (online)
Time: 12pm
Webinar on Copilot and Microsoft 365
Learn how to get started with Copilot and Microsoft 365, achieve goals, streamline user management, and enhance collaboration. Includes pre-recorded sessions and live Q&A. Provided by Tech South West Technology Partner Microsoft.
SWIG Finance Community Investment Enterprise Fund
SWIG Finance secured £10 million from Triodos Bank UK and Better Society Capital to support micro and small businesses in the South and West Country through the Community Investment Enterprise Fund.
Chamber Finance Finder
A free online platform that matches businesses with funding solutions, including loans, equity, and grants. Offers innovative products like VAT loans and invoice finance.
Female Filmmakers in Tech & Art GAP Fund
A funding initiative for women filmmakers working on documentaries about technology and art. Supports production and post-production with financial and resource assistance.
Plug-in Van Grant Extension
The Department for Transport extends the Plug-in van grant for another year with £120 million funding, offering grants up to £2,500 when buying small vans up to 2.5 tonnes and up to £5,000 for larger vans up to 4.25 tonnes.
Women TechEU
A 2-year EU-funded project supporting women-led deep tech startups with €75k grants and a business development programme. Aims to create a gender-balanced entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Meet the Funder South West – ClimateTech
Gain investor insights and pitching opportunities for ClimateTech companies, and secure a 1-2-1 with a sector-focused investor..
Date: 25 March 2025
Time: 10am
Location: Exeter Science Park, 6 Babbage Way, Clyst Honiton, Exeter EX5 2FN
Climate Mingle
Networking event for climate action in Plymouth. Share tips, best practices, and challenges with Plymouth's climate community.
Date: 27 March 2025
Time: 6pm
Location: The Marine Biological Association, The Laboratory, Citadel Hill, Plymouth PL1 2PB
LifeIn AI: Explore, Experience & Understand the Future of AI
A free one-day event with workshops, talks, and demonstrations on AI. This event is perfect for anyone looking to learn more about the future of technology, its impact on your business and how it can drive growth
Date: 9 April 2025
Time: 10am
Location: Market Hall, Devonport, Plymouth PL1 4PS
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