The UK government has unveiled the Local Innovation Partnerships Fund (LIPF), a £500 million initiative aimed at fostering regional science and technology expertise across the country. Local areas can now bid for up to £20 million each to support research and innovation projects that leverage regional strengths and translate research breakthroughs into practical solutions. The fund is administered by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) and is part of the government’s broader “Plan for Change” to drive economic growth and job creation through innovation.
The LIPF builds upon previous support provided to ten UK regions, including Greater Manchester, West Midlands, West Yorkshire, Glasgow City Region, Cardiff Capital Region, and Northern Ireland’s Belfast-Derry corridor, each of which has already received a minimum of £30 million to invest in sectors like advanced manufacturing, life sciences, digital technologies, and clean energy. The new competition invites additional local and regional partnerships to apply for funding to support projects that encourage research, innovation, and technology growth.
Eligible uses for the funding include infrastructure development, technology adoption, research and development commercialization, and skills development. Applications will undergo a two-stage selection process, beginning with expressions of interest, followed by an assessment by an independent panel based on criteria such as economic impact, partnership strength, and alignment with national priorities.
This initiative is part of a record £86 billion R&D settlement announced by the government, aiming to support science and technology research and development in fields such as drug development, long-lasting batteries, and artificial intelligence. The commitment includes annual spending of £22.5 billion and allocates up to £500 million to regional authorities to encourage local investment and innovation.
By empowering local leaders and communities to drive innovation tailored to their regional strengths, the LIPF seeks to unlock discoveries that can improve lives, create jobs, and contribute to the UK’s economic prosperity.
For more information and to apply, visit the UK Government’s official announcement.
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