The UK government has announced an additional £30 million in funding for the Innovation Accelerator (IA) programme, reinforcing its commitment to regional economic growth and technological advancement.
This extension builds on the £100 million already invested in the initiative, which supports locally driven innovation across three key regions:
- Glasgow City Region: Developing advanced manufacturing, space and photonics, and healthcare innovations, including precision medicine.
- Greater Manchester: Strengthening expertise in high-performance materials, health innovation, advanced manufacturing, and digital technology.
- West Midlands: Focusing on advanced manufacturing to drive progress in healthcare, diagnostics, and the transition to net zero.
Led by Innovate UK, in collaboration with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, the IA programme aims to position these regions as global leaders in research and development.
Through 26 regional projects, the initiative has successfully:
- Unlocked new technologies
- Attracted private investment
- Created and sustained high-value jobs
By integrating national strategies with local expertise, the programme fosters innovation that benefits businesses, communities, and the broader economy.
With additional funding secured, the IA programme is set to make an even greater impact, driving forward transformative projects that improve healthcare, enhance infrastructure, and support a cleaner, greener future.
The UK’s approach to innovation-led growth is designed to ensure long-term economic resilience, positioning the country at the forefront of global technological advancement.
