Huntingdonshire Hosts Defence & Innovation Showcase with Nordic-Baltic States
Baltic and Nordic Ambassadors Visit Huntingdonshire to Explore Defence and Innovation Links
Huntingdonshire District Council hosted a delegation of ambassadors from Nordic and Baltic states, alongside defence, government, and industry leaders, on March 9 and 10, 2026. The programme aimed to showcase the district’s growing role within the UK’s Oxford–Cambridge Supercluster, particularly in defence, innovation, and investment.
Showcasing Huntingdonshire’s Strategic Importance
The events, held at Pathfinder House in Huntingdon and sites including Alconbury Weald Enterprise Zone and RAF Wyton, highlighted Huntingdonshire’s potential for future growth and collaboration. Ambassadors from Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, Latvia, and Lithuania attended, engaging in discussions about regional opportunities and the district’s contribution to the UK’s defence and security capabilities.
Keynote Addresses and Networking
Attendees heard from Cllr Sarah Conboy, Executive Leader of Huntingdonshire District Council, and Charlotte Horobin, chief executive of the Cambridgeshire Chamber of Commerce. Their addresses emphasized the connections between defence capability, skills development, and place-based economic growth. A networking reception provided a platform for government stakeholders, industry leaders, and local partners to connect. Huntingdonshire District Council reported the event fostered discussions on unlocking future opportunities.
Place Discovery Tour: Exploring Investment Opportunities
On March 10, the Council hosted a “Place Discovery” tour, introducing international defence companies and investors to opportunities across the district. Visits to Alconbury Weald Enterprise Zone and RAF Wyton provided insights into Project FAIRFAX, potential partnerships, the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) Local Growth Plan, and the collaborative approach to securing investment. The tour aimed to demonstrate Huntingdonshire’s historic and current links to defence and its ambitions for future expansion.
Cllr Conboy Highlights District Strengths
Cllr Sarah Conboy, executive leader of Huntingdonshire District Council, expressed her pleasure in welcoming the ambassadors and leaders to the district. She stated the events were an opportunity to showcase the strength of Huntingdonshire, the partnerships being built, and its increasing role in supporting the UK’s defence, innovation, and economic growth priorities. The Hunts Post reported on her comments.
Background: The Oxford–Cambridge Supercluster
The Oxford–Cambridge Supercluster is a region identified as having significant potential for economic growth and innovation, driven by world-leading universities, research institutions, and high-tech industries. It spans Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Northamptonshire. The focus areas within the cluster include life sciences, advanced engineering, and digital technologies. Huntingdonshire’s location within this cluster positions it as a strategically important area for attracting investment and fostering collaboration. Further information on the Supercluster can be found on the UK Government website.
Sarah Conboy’s Dual Role
Cllr Sarah Conboy holds a dual role, serving as both the Executive Leader of Huntingdonshire District Council and the CEO of Pinpoint Cambridgeshire. Her LinkedIn profile details her experience in the civil service, public sector, and third sector, highlighting a blend of public expertise and private sector practice. This experience likely informed her leadership during the ambassadorial visit and the promotion of Huntingdonshire’s economic opportunities.
What Happens Next?
Following the visit, Huntingdonshire District Council will continue to engage with the ambassadors and representatives from the Nordic and Baltic states to explore potential investment and partnership opportunities. The Council will also function with the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority (CPCA) to implement the Local Growth Plan and further develop the district’s infrastructure and skills base. The success of this event is expected to lead to further initiatives aimed at strengthening Huntingdonshire’s position within the Oxford–Cambridge Supercluster.