A project aims to get 1,000 people into vocational education by building closer links between universities and businesses.

It is being run by the Sussex Learning Network, which is funded by the regional branch of the Learning and Skills Council, and has the backing of all the universities in Sussex.

The project will promote vocational learning and improve skills for industries which are key to the Sussex economy, such as tourism, retail, creative media and bio-sciences.

A conference entitled Making Connections, will be held later this month to kickstart the initiative. The two-day event at the University of Sussex is open to anyone involved in vocational learning, such as employers, tutors, mentors and training providers.

Chris Baker, director of the Sussex Learning Network, said: "This conference marks a turning point in ensuring that higher education across Sussex is made accessible to those in work or undertaking vocational training or education.

"We aim to make a real impact in the next three years so local employers and their workforces can see the benefits of participating in education."

Paul Stoggles, head of employer development and marketing at Learning and Skills Council Sussex, said: "Sussex is leading the way in providing learning opportunities for individuals and employees.

"More organisations are realising the significant advantages of continued learning and skills improvement for their workforce and this is vital for the Sussex economy.

"Employers who are interested in making their company more productive, their staff better skilled and more motivated, and their turnover grow, should attend this conference to find out how vocational learning can help to make all those things happen."

Making Connections takes place at the University of Sussex on June 21 and 22.

For more information, visit www.sussexlearningnetwork.org.uk or phone 01273 873398.