Sizewell C bosses pledged to place contracts locally as more than 250 business chiefs gathered to hear about tender opportunities at the new nuclear site.
They were told of opportunities to tender for contracts including for temporary accommodation and IT and telecommunications for the Leiston new nuclear build already at a meeting earlier this month.
A packed gathering at High Lodge in Darsham, near Yoxford, heard from Sizewell C and the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce about getting ready for the delivery phase of the project.
Sizewell C director Sarah Williamson told the audience: “We will contract locally, and we will drive diversity in the workforce. We want to work with you to deliver positive benefit for businesses in Suffolk.”
Supply chain lead Steve Carroll said: “Today we want to ignite conversation about early works for the project. You have a voice, and we want you to take part in the delivery of Sizewell C.”
Matt Jones, Economic Development Manager at Suffolk County Council chaired a panel discussion which explored how Suffolk could make the most of the project which is expected to deliver £2bn to the county.
Ashley Shorey-Mills, Head of Sizewell C Supply Chain Engagement at Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, said local businesses were keen to get involved.
"We are already supporting well over 1,100 businesses in Suffolk who want to play a role in building Sizewell C.
"Through our support and guidance, we will ensure as many businesses as possible are involved in this critical project, which will help build a legacy for Suffolk and the region."
Delegates heard from Women into Construction business development director Jacqui Wordsworth who spoke about how the organisation is working to create gender diversity in the workforce.
"Women represent 16% of the construction workforce in the UK with just 2% in the Trades, we want to help Sizewell C and its supply chain to address this and we are here to help your businesses access a great workforce," she said.
Sizewell C is currently carrying out advance works for the project - including creating a marsh harrier habitat, a new fen meadow site and a new access road - before the main construction work begins.
A next phase will involve building infrastructure to transport workers and freight to the site.
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