Prime Highlights:
- The UK government is offering up to £20 million per region to support science, technology, and innovation projects.
- The initiative aims to create jobs and turn research ideas into practical solutions that benefit local communities.
Key Facts:
- The Local Innovation Partnerships Fund (LIPF) will invest up to £500 million across the UK to develop both established and emerging innovation clusters.
- Funding can be used for a wide range of activities, including research facilities, technology adoption, business growth programs, and skills development.
Key Background:
The UK government has started a new plan to grow science and technology in different parts of the country through the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund (LIPF). Under this scheme, local areas can apply for up to £20 million to support projects that encourage research, innovation, and technology growth.
The program, run by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), aims to help regions use their strengths to turn research ideas into useful projects that create jobs and benefit local communities. UKRI is inviting local and regional groups to submit proposals demonstrating how they can transform local expertise into innovations that drive economic growth.
Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall described the initiative as part of the government’s broader “Plan for Change.” She stated that the fund will empower “local leaders, researchers, and businesses with skin in the game to deliver transformational research that creates jobs and improves lives in their area.”
Ten regions have already received government backing through the fund, including Greater Manchester, West Midlands, West Yorkshire, Glasgow City Region, Cardiff Capital Region, and the Belfast–Derry-Londonderry innovation corridor. Each of these regions will receive at least £30 million to invest in areas such as advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital technologies, and clean energy.
The LIPF will invest up to £500 million nationwide to develop and scale innovation clusters with strong potential. The financing will be given not only to the well-established hubs of innovation but also to the emerging ones that can potentially yield an economic influence.
The funding applies to numerous activities that include the construction of research facilities, new technology adoption, business growth, and the development of skills.
The selection will be done in two phases. The first step will be the interest submission of regions, and the shortlisted will send detailed proposals later.
The proposals will be evaluated by a panel according to economic benefits, partnerships in the area, and alignment with the national goals.
By means of this program, the UK government believes that it can contribute to local innovation and assist all regions to contribute to the technological and economic development of the country.
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