THE County Durham Development Company (CDDC) believes the technologies of the future will be research and knowledge-based, and to exploit the industial opportunity to the full, the North-East must develop the kind of environment and entrepreneurial culture necessary to position it as a home for the industries of tomorrow.

The CDDC is showing its commitment to the future economic well-being of the region by staging a major business partnering event which is designed to encourage new partnerships and ventures between SMEs.

Interprise 2001, to be held at County Hall, Durham, on the 12th and 13th of March, will provide an ideal forum for businesses to exchange ideas and to explore areas of co-operation.

Focusing on ICT and software, medical technology, biotechnology, scientific innovation, new materials science and nano industries, the event will provide each and every delegate with an arranged schedule of pre-booked 30-minute meetings with potential commercial partners.

For local companies who lack the time or resources to seek out such contacts, Interprise 2001 will bring prospective international partners right to the heart of the region.

Phil Eadon, director of marketing at CDDC and project officer for Interprise 2001, said: "An event like this really does offer a tremendous opportunity to position the County and the region as a location for future technology.

"With international delegates from Europe, North America and one of the most dynamic and fastest developing regions of People's Republic of China, Interprise 2001 is putting the County on the world stage."

The event has attracted the support of regional organisations including the University of Durham, Government Office North East, RTC North, RMPD, BioSci North, NECC and One NorthEast. Full details can be found on the event website,www.Interprise2001.com