Grant News

UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) has introduced a new £500 million funding initiative aimed at aligning research investment with local priorities. The fund seeks to drive economic growth, create jobs, and enhance skills across the UK.

The initiative, called the “Local Innovation Partnerships Fund,” is designed to empower local authorities, businesses, and researchers to lead decision-making in consultation with their communities. This approach ensures that funding is directed to where it will have the greatest impact.

The fund will invest in regional strengths, building on areas identified in the industrial strategy such as:

• cybersecurity in Northern Ireland,
• semiconductors in Wales,
• artificial intelligence-led healthcare technology in Birmingham

By supporting local partnerships of universities, local authorities, businesses, and innovators, the fund will enable projects including pilot studies, knowledge exchange, and the translation of research into practical solutions for local challenges. The initiative will also foster regional growth by helping areas across the UK use innovation to support business development, create higher-quality jobs, and expand access to skills training.

The fund will provide at least £30 million for each of 10 designated regions, including one in each of the devolved nations. Additional competitive awards will be available for innovative projects and businesses in other regions. 

UKRI will publish further details in due course.