A BOLTON conference will attempt to convince North-west companies that they should take advantage of regional education and training resources.

The event at the Reebok Stadium, Bolton on Monday, April 14, is being organised by Trade Partners UK, the government body which seeks to help British companies maximise their global potential.

Delegates will be told that universities, colleges and education and training companies are available to help them boost export performance or explore overseas opportunities.

More information is available via e-mail from Kerry Hough at khough@strategem.

co.uk or fax -- 0161-860-0888.

The event will highlight the wide range of academic, commercial and technical know-how available to firms.

Mr Rob Meakin, Chair of Trade Partners UK's Education and Training Export Group, said businesses were missing out.

More information is available via e-mail from Kerry Hough at khough@strategem.co.uk or fax -- 0161-860-0888.

He went on: "The fact is that our universities, colleges and other training organisations possess a wealth of specialist expertise and experience in some of the world's fastest growing markets, including areas such as biotechnology, energy, waste management and IT.

"They can also offer potential partnerships, frequently with staff and students drawn from overseas markets.

"The North-west has students and researchers from almost every country in the world working within easy reach of every company in the region and there are extensive networks across the world of those who received an important part of their education here."

He added: "The challenge for businesses in the North-west is to grasp the value of these assets and identify ways in which they can work with the sector for long-term growth.

"Our conference will provide the region's businesses with the insight that will equip them to achieve this challenge."

The event will feature a panel of high-profile speakers from business and academia.

Management consultancy Strategem is organising the event on behalf of TPUK.