A major collaboration project has been announced between West Country tech support organisation Tech South West and Microsoft in a bid to enhance digital skills in the region.
The programme will provide tech firms with opportunities to access training for their teams and develop technical skills within their organisations. Support will also be provided for those looking to switch to a career in tech, or grow their tech business via the Tech South West StartUp and ScaleUp Studios.
Research conducted earlier this year by Tech South West revealed that 55% of tech companies in the region cite “lack of candidates” as their biggest barrier to recruitment, while 60% said “candidates lacking relevant skills” is one of their top three obstacles to growth.
Dan Pritchard, co-founder of Tech South West, said: “A skilled community is the engine behind any successful tech ecosystem, and tech - as a booming, high-value and economically resilient industry - is fast becoming the backbone of the South West economy.
“We are delighted to be working with Microsoft to roll out training and support programmes for South West tech firms, helping them to upskill their teams, tap into new talent pipelines, and grow.”
According to Tech South West, the region's technology sector is projected to reach almost £20bn gross value added (GVA) a year by 2026, and create more than 125,000 new jobs.
The organisation said the project would "bolster" its mission to boost digital skills and inward investment into the region, and support Microsoft’s campaign to help 1.5 million people launch a career in tech.
Richard Ellis, general manager of Microsoft’s small, medium and corporate customer segment, said: “We’re working with Tech South West to make sure that all businesses in the region can learn how Microsoft can support them in helping identify new opportunities."
He added: “We look forward to meeting Tech South West members at upcoming events and starting a conversation as to how we can help their businesses to grow.”
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