In conjunction with Innovate UK, the UK's innovation agency.

This event is a great opportunity for CKMA members to hear examples of innovation, understand the challenges in the manufacturing sector and explore how they can make the most of their involvement with the Alliance.

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Some key points you can expect to discuss during the event:

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Manufacturing in the West Yorkshire region: Councillor Jane Scullion, Leader of Calderdale Council, will join CKMA members at our upcoming meeting. This is an opportunity to hear an update on the issues facing the local economy and to feedback on the challenges facing manufacturers in a post-COVID era, particularly in the light of the recent formation of West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

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A Scot by background, she has lived in this part of West Yorkshire for 35 years. She has degrees from Cambridge, the London School of Economics and the University of Warwick as well as a doctorate. She was a senior manager in the public sector for twenty-five years, running everything from swimming pools to bridges, pipelines and roads. She is passionate about systems, data, and information technology and keen to see strong, fair, and practical relationships between business and local government.

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Innovate UK: Innovation in manufacturing is not limited to simply product development, it also includes process improvement, market expansion and more. Understanding this holistic approach to innovation is crucial for the growth of businesses in the sector.

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Anticipated Challenges in 2024: What do you see as your challenges in the year ahead? Identifying these challenges will help CKMA and its members plan the programme effectively.

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Identifying Innovation Opportunities: Paul Molloy of Fluere's presentation on identifying opportunities within businesses to maximise the impact of innovation will focus on ways to spot areas where innovation can lead to business growth and competitiveness.

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Success Stories: Hearing about CKMA members who have successfully embraced innovation in their business strategies, processes and products is inspiring. Real-world examples provide concrete insights and best practices for others to follow.

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Networking with Sponsors: Meeting with sponsors offering various services to SME manufacturers is an excellent opportunity for members to explore potential collaborations and solutions for their business needs.

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Getting Involved with CKMA Governance: 'Run by manufacturers, for manufacturers' Understanding how you can get involved in the governance and future direction of CKMA and how members can actively contribute to the organisation's growth and influence its strategic decisions.

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By discussing these points and engaging with the speakers and fellow members, CKMA attendees can gain valuable insights and develop a clearer vision for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in 2024 and beyond.

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There will be a short AGM with an overview of 2023 activity and election of Steering Group members.