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Please find below an overview of the latest business advice and guidance, as well as events and funding streams.
 City College Plymouth awarded national defence technical excellence college status
Plymouth has reached a major milestone in its defence and skills journey, with City College Plymouth officially announced as one of only five Defence Technical Colleges of Excellence nationwide.
Theatre Royal Plymouth awarded £8,356,000 by DCMS & Arts Council England’s, Creative Foundations Fund
This investment will allow them to begin addressing some of their most pressing infrastructure needs, ensuring that they can continue to create, make, build and present world-class theatre.
The Box Plymouth smashes records as landmark year delivers 356k visits
The milestone comes as The Box marks the end of its fifth year since opening, a period in which it has transformed Plymouth's cultural landscape and firmly established the city as a destination for world-class exhibitions, community engagement, and public art.
Altilium secures £18.5 million to scale EV battery recycling and build UK’s first commercial facility for recovery of critical minerals
A major investment will enable Altilium to grow its battery recycling capability in Plymouth, helping strengthen domestic production of key materials needed for the UK’s electric vehicle industry.
Partnership develops real-time marine mammal detection system
A Knowledge Transfer Partnership between the University of Plymouth and MSEIS is turning academic research into practical technology to support the protection of marine life.
Marine autonomy founders invited to join Growth Forge
Growth Forge is helping position the South West as a leader in marine autonomy, supporting founders to turn innovative R&D into real‑world applications with backing from Babcock and the University of Plymouth.
JannerCard has launched in Plymouth
A new city‑wide loyalty card scheme has launched in Plymouth, offering access to deals, discounts and competitions while supporting local businesses by encouraging footfall and promoting local shopping.
Looking for further business news? Visit our news section on Invest Plymouth to read more.
 Cutec
Our spotlight features Cutec Ltd, a Plymouth‑based IT services and communications company providing managed IT support, cloud solutions and cyber security services to organisations across the South West, helping businesses operate securely, efficiently and with confidence.
 Offshore Wind Innovation Programme
Join Innovate UK for online briefing sessions and surgeries, commencing on 13 April 2026 for an overview of the competition, including the scope, timelines and the types of projects that are eligible for funding.
Microsoft on‑demand AI and productivity videos
Microsoft has published a growing set of short, on‑demand videos to help small and medium‑sized businesses get more from Microsoft 365 and AI‑powered tools.
New standard for construction SMEs
A new standard to aid navigation of existing data and information standards relevant to the built environment and construction sectors.
Looking for further business support and training? Visit our section on Invest Plymouth to read more.
 Secure Software for Resilient Growth
UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £5 million for collaborative projects that enable adoption of the Government's Software Security Code of Practice to drive growth of secure and resilient software supply chains. Deadline to apply is 29 April.
Founders of the Future Competition Offers Support for Young Entrepreneurs
Tech Nation’s global competition is for founders aged 25 and under, offering top finalists the chance to pitch at London Tech Week and compete for up to £1.3 million in investment and support. Deadline to apply is 30 April.
Santander X UK Awards Offer Cash Prizes for Business Growth
The Santander X UK Awards is a national pitching competition designed to support early-stage and growing businesses. Deadline for applications 6 May 2026.
Competition Launched for UK Offshore Wind Technology Innovation Projects
A new competition has opened to support mid-stage innovation projects in offshore wind, aligned with the Offshore Wind Industrial Growth Plan. There are two strands, Industrial Research and Feasibility Studies. Deadline for applications 3 June.
AXA Startup Angel Competition Offers UK Entrepreneurs Cash Prizes and Mentoring
The AXA Startup Angel Competition is inviting entries from entrepreneurs across the UK seeking support to develop new or early stage businesses. The contest provides financial awards and mentoring to help applicants progress their ideas or existing ventures. Deadline for applications 21 June 2026
Zero emission vessels and infrastructure two: alternative fuels
UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £150 million. The funding will be to develop, deploy and operate innovative clean maritime solutions for three years in a real world environment. Closing date 16 September.
Small Business, Big Giveaway
Small business owners and self‑employed people across the UK can enter a national competition run by FSB for the chance to win £10,000 to invest in growing their business.
Looking for funding opportunities? Visit our section on Invest Plymouth to read more.
 Linkedin Local
Hosted by the University of Plymouth Careers Service on 22 April, in the Babbage Building, this informal networking event provides the opportunity to meet and talk to a wide range of professionals from across Plymouth.
Navigating the Renters’ Rights Act
With a number of forthcoming key changes, Stags and Azets are holding a seminar on 23 April at Strawberry Fields, where they will offer expert advice on the letting and taxation implications of being a landlord.
Commercial collaboration information sessions: Advanced Manufacturing
Explore how ground-breaking research in advanced manufacturing can be transformed into real-world solutions. This session highlights opportunities for industry collaboration, commercialisation strategies and innovative approaches to bring academic ideas to market. Taking place on 29 April.
South West of England Digital Conference
Hosted at the University of Plymouth, the event creates a space for SMEs, educators, digital specialists and students to learn from real case studies, take part in hands‑on workshops and explore new approaches to productivity and growth. Taking place on 6 May.
Climate Mingle
Climate Connections invites you to a Climate Mingle on Plymouth’s waterfront, exploring the role of ports, ferries and electric vessels in the transition to low‑carbon transport. Taking place on 21 May at the Boathouse.
Find more details on each event, as well as our full event list on our website.
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