How can the digital community of Merseyside maximise in Liverpool’s investment at Shanghai 2010? There appears to be confusion in the digital and creative sector about how we (collectively) can get involved in Shanghai 2010.

I went to a meeting specifically set up for the creative sector, described as ‘Promote your creative enterprise at Shanghai 2010′.

Having turned up acme’s new Capital building HQ, eaten some expensive sandwiches, I sat down, pen poised, hoping I would leave the meeting with a pad full of ideas, opportunities and enthusiasm.

Kevin McManus, took to the stage:
‘I’d like to introduce you our expert in Shanghai, Phil Southward, who will be telling you how the creative sector can maximise opportunities in shanghai 2010 and how to do business in China.

Phil took the stage,
‘I’m not the expert on how to do business in China and I have nothing to do with the creative sector. But I’d like to get to know you all personally. Can we start with going round the room (of 40 people) and can you tell me who you are, and what’s your story’. My MD stood up and left at this point.

I am keen to support public sector events that help the companies in the city, but I do feel more effort needs to be made in putting on better events. Specifically in emerging markets, and the digital sector is one of those. Helping companies grow is key and any useful help is always welcomed.

What we needed to know from this event:

• What are the business generation opportunities?
• How can I get my company in front of interested businesses to generate new business ?
• Is there any benefit of creative / digital businesses going to Shanghai.
• What type of businesses will mostly be attending.

I appreciate acme and the work they do, but as the years pass nothing is being done to address and support digital industries. We’re predominately technology driven and I’d like to see a public sector body, headed by a digital industry expert in the city to support, promote and help develop our sector. I can’t see this being achieved by those, who as hard as they try, don’t have the experience to really help us.

I’m positive if there was a strong digital sector body for Liverpool we would get more support from the private sector.

Cllr Gary Miller is a sector expert, could be a good starting point?