The West Sussex Economic Growth Board held a meeting on February 5, 2026, at the Sussex and Surrey Institute of Technology in Crawley, West Sussex, to help bring more technology companies to the area. The event brought together local businesses that work with artificial intelligence, sensors, and advanced electronics to discuss ways to grow the regional economy.
Council leaders want to use these technologies to create high-paying jobs and ensure the local area stays competitive. Cllr Paul Marshall, who leads the council, explained that the meeting is part of a plan to turn the county into a hub for modern industry. This effort follows the West Sussex Economic Strategy 2025-2035, which focuses on high-value work like advanced manufacturing and clean energy.
The plans come as the region prepares for the first mayoral election for the new Sussex Mayoral Combined County Authority in May 2026. This new authority will manage a £1.14 billion investment fund intended to support local growth over the next 30 years. By focusing on technology now, the board aims to show that the area is ready to use this significant new funding and power.
Residents are expected to see more opportunities for technical training and high-quality careers through the local Institute of Technology. The move marks a strategic shift for the community, moving away from a reliance on airport-based industries toward a more varied technology-based economy.
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