Somerset Council

Ignite Somerset conference sparks new opportunities for county’s economy

Group discussing outdoors at Carymoor Environmental Centre; Rupert Farthing (right) speaks with visitors among trees and willow fencing.Credit: Produced by Ben Kheir, Kheirs Media

The inaugural Ignite Somerset conference brought together more than 270 business leaders, investors, developers, entrepreneurs and key decision-makers for a day focused on unlocking Somerset’s economic potential.        

Sponsored by NatWest and delivered in partnership between Somerset Council and Somerset Chamber of Commerce, the event showcased why Somerset is one of the UK’s most exciting places to live, work, invest and do business.

Held at Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford, the conference featured expert speakers, fireside chats, a live investment pitch showcase and a busy exhibition space. Delegates heard about Somerset’s “Golden Opportunities” and explored the major projects, sectors and partnerships helping to shape the county’s future economy.

The event was designed to help businesses connect with new opportunities, including access to major supply chains, innovation support, investment prospects and the skills and talent needed for future growth.

Working with the Somerset Economic Growth Board, we shaped and helped deliver this event, working alongside Somerset Chamber of Commerce and partners to bring together businesses and investors from across the county and beyond.

The programme highlighted opportunities across some of Somerset’s strongest and fastest-growing sectors, including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, digital, data and AI, aerospace, defence and food and drink. Tech South West was among the organisations helping to support conversations around innovation, technology and the region’s growing digital economy.

Feedback from the day has been overwhelmingly positive, with delegates welcoming the chance to make new connections, hear from industry leaders and explore practical ways to collaborate and grow.

Building on the success of the first conference, we hope to see Ignite Somerset return bigger and better in 2027, continuing to champion Somerset as a place of enterprise, innovation and investment.