Key Highlights from the Invest Crawley Conference
Invest Crawley is a key business networking event showcasing local investment opportunities, innovation and economic growth in Crawley. In March 2025, the Sussex & Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT), along with Chichester College Group and Crawley College, attended the 2025 conference. The event, held in the heart of Crawley, showcased the region’s dynamic growth and commitment to future developments in engineering, construction and digital skills.
The conference brought together industry leaders, local businesses and educators. It provided a platform for discussing the major projects shaping Crawley and its surrounding areas. Notable highlights included Gatwick Airport’s £multi-million expansion and upgrades, set to accommodate over 40 million passengers annually. Also the ongoing development of Manor Royal Business District, which continues to grow with over 600 businesses and 30,000 jobs.
SSIoT’s Role in Regional Workforce Development
SSIoT’s participation in the conference reinforced its role in developing the region’s workforce, particularly in high-demand fields such as engineering, construction and digital technologies. Crawley College was pleased to hear how current students and alumni are contributing to the region’s growth, supporting key projects already in motion.
“We’re proud to play a key role in the development of local talent from Crawley College and the Sussex Surrey Institute of Technology (SSIoT)” said Vikki Illingworth from Chichester College Group “Our students are integral to the continued success of these important regional projects. As we prepare to open our new SSIoT building in Crawley later this year, we’re more committed than ever to supporting the workforce of tomorrow.”
The Crawley Innovation Centre and Future Investments
The event also featured an insightful tour, where delegates boarded a liquid hydrogen-powered Metrobus for a tour of several local development projects. The tour included a visit to the Manor Royal Business District and their new Innovation Centre, which was officially inaugurated by Mayor Sharmila Sivarajah. This new hub is set to support over 200 jobs and boost innovation in the region.
As Crawley continues to position itself as a prime business and innovation hub, SSIoT remains at the forefront of cultivating the skilled professionals needed to drive this progress. The Institute looks forward to further collaboration with local businesses and educational institutions to support sustainable growth and innovation.
“We’re excited to be a part of such an exciting future for Crawley and the wider Gatwick Diamond region,” said Tim Chester-Williams, Head of Sales at SSIoT. “The Invest Crawley Conference 2025 highlighted the dynamic growth of this region, and we are ready to continue our role in shaping its future.”
The conference was also an opportunity to highlight other significant investments in the region, including a possible new runway at Gatwick Airport, which will further enhance Crawley’s role as a global business destination.
Keep an eye out for more updates as SSIoT prepares for the grand opening of its state-of-the-art new building on Crawley College campus later this year! Follow us on LinkedIn for more details.