Local leaders across all four nations of the UK are now backed by at least £30 million each to drive transformative research and innovation, Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has announced.
The Local Innovation Partnerships Fund, worth up to £500 million, will empower regions to invest in high-growth sectors, support local expertise, and deliver real-world solutions to national challenges, while creating jobs and boosting the economy as part of the government’s Plan for Change.
The latest funding allocations include Glasgow City Region, Cardiff Capital Region, and Belfast/Derry-Londonderry
Each will receive at least £30 million, following collaboration between the UK Government and devolved administrations. This builds on support already announced for seven English regions, including Greater Manchester, Liverpool, and the North East.
The fund builds on the success of the Innovation Accelerators programme, which has already attracted £140 million in private investment, created hundreds of jobs, and delivered breakthroughs in healthcare, AI, transport, and green housing
Peter Kyle, Science and Technology Secretary, commented:
“All across the UK there are incredible projects and fantastic innovation taking place. We know that these are critical for the UK’s success.
“This fund now gives local leaders in every nation of the UK the chance to proudly capitalise on their city or region’s expertise, from AI to life sciences, medicines to engineering, and beyond, to make a difference to lives across the country.
“With backing for more regions to come we can unlock the new jobs and business opportunities that are central to boosting the economic growth at the heart of our Plan for Change.”

Examples include:
- Glasgow researchers detecting colon cancer earlier
- Moonbility in the West Midlands using AI to manage rail disruption
- Future Homes in Greater Manchester tackling climate change through energy-efficient housing
Local partnerships of councils, businesses, and research institutions will work with UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to invest in regional priorities from early 2026. Areas could focus on:
- Life sciences
- Green energy
- Cybersecurity
- Medical technology
- Artificial intelligence
Regions not yet allocated funding will be able to bid into a competitive process, with UKRI guidance to follow.
This investment is part of the UK’s record £86 billion R&D settlement to 2030, supporting the government’s modern Industrial Strategy and long-term economic growth.
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