There are all sorts of ways in which companies can seek out potential new business – and often those opportunities can be found very close to home.

Businesses can actually do a lot locally to involve themselves in opportunities for growth.

We have one of those right on our doorstep in Newport.

The ReNewport Task Force initiative, which aims to drive an agenda of regeneration for the city over the next 15 years, is a prime example of just how businesses should be looking at what’s happening in their area, and understanding how a major project like that can ultimately provide new business opportunities.

It’s all about companies getting together, supporting and taking part in an initiative to put the city of Newport on the international radar – and not just sitting back and relying on Welsh Government for help.

Welsh Government will continue to provide opportunities for growth – like the exciting recent announcement on the creation of the Pinewood Studios development near Newport.

It’s true that WG wants businesses in the region to benefit from these opportunities, but they can’t – and shouldn’t be expected to – do it all.

So, the message to the owners of SMEs here in South East Wales is clear.

You have to get engaged and involved in talking to organisations like your local chambers of commerce, business clubs, Federation of Small Businesses and the Wales Employment and Skills Board to discover just what’s going on in the area that you could become a part of – and end up reaping some of the benefits.

Welsh Government are making the avenues available for businesses to have a far greater say in the running of their own regions and it is key for business to step up to the plate and take advantage of these opportunities.