Small high‑tech defence businesses play a critical role in UK national security, bringing agility, creativity and specialist capabilities to the defence sector.
Supporting SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) is essential to unlocking innovation and enabling the delivery of these benefits, and collaboration is central to making this happen.
Tech South West’s first Accelerator Growth Day took place at Exeter Science Park, bringing together founders, coaches, mentors and partners to connect, share expertise and accelerate growth.
Babcock joined the day alongside the University of Plymouth and Team Plymouth partners, hosting deep‑dive sessions with a range of dynamic companies covering marine autonomy, AI, finance and legal.
SMEs currently represent only around 4% of UK defence expenditure, limiting wider economic impact, access to world‑leading technologies and sovereign capability. This week, Babcock launched its SME Charter, providing clear guidelines on how barriers to engagement can be reduced.
Tom Coates, Director of Future Capabilities, said: “This isn’t just about working with the best of breed SMEs, it’s about partnership, nurturing a foundation that will drive innovation and engagement that will add real value to the wider programmes we have in the region and beyond.”
Those interested in learning more about the SME Charter can find further information here: Babcock aims to lead industry shift with SME Defence Charter – Babcock International Group
To explore or apply for Growth Forge, visit: https://www.techsouthwest.co.uk/growth-forge/
Image credit: Robert Bourne, Babcock
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