On 10 November 2011 the Prime Minister and Lord Green launched a major initiative to boost the number of SMEs that export - setting the target of getting up to 100,000 SMEs to either start exporting for the first time or spread to new markets over the next four or five years.

This is a national challenge because boosting SME exports is crucial to strengthening the UK's trade performance. We know we cannot rely on consumption fuelled by debt, or on government spending funded by debt, to drive growth. There is only one other way of driving growth and creating jobs and this is through trade and investment. We have to pay our way in the 21st century.

UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) is already working with SMEs to help them succeed through exports. But a whole range of other networks also have a role to play in this national challenge - lawyers, accountants, banks, business and trade organisations, chambers of commerce and LEPs are just some of the organisations that have an important role in influencing and supporting SMEs on their path to exporting.

It was for this reason that Lord Green hosted the summit in London at which the Prime Minister set out the national challenge of supporting SME growth through exporting. And it is with this in mind that Lord Green will be hosting regional versions of this event across England and in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

The events will be an opportunity for SMEs and intermediaries to learn more about this national challenge and explore how you can play a part in tackling it.