UK research and innovation funding is entering a period of significant change. UK Research and Innovation, which invests around £8 billion a year, has confirmed it will pause and reshape parts of its funding while moving to a more focused investment model. For UK SMEs interested in R&D funding, this shift brings both challenges and … Read more
For many UK farmers, the word “innovation” can feel like a double-edged sword. We see incredible new technologies at trade shows – from autonomous weeders to advanced soil sensors – but there is often a significant gap between a polished prototype and the reality of a muddy field in mid-November. The risk of being an … Read more
Introduction UK businesses are planning to spend money on innovation over the coming months going into 2026, despite the uncertain economic climate in the country. There is a widespread belief that innovating through adversity is the best way to ensure future growth prospects. These findings are according to a 2025 research survey conducted by Alibaba.com, … Read more
The Autumn Budget introduced important changes that will affect how small and medium sized businesses can raise investment through the Enterprise Investment Scheme and Venture Capital Trusts. From April 2026 the amount a company can raise each year through these schemes will increase from £5 million to £10 million. Companies that invest heavily in research … Read more
As Chancellor Rachel Reeves prepares to deliver the Autumn Budget on November 26, the overarching consensus among economists is that the fiscal landscape is defined by challenge. Major firms like Grant Thornton and BDO agree that the government faces a formidable fiscal shortfall, estimated to be between £20 billion and £40 billion, necessitating tax-raising measures … Read more
The Department for Science, Innovation & Technology (DSIT) today announced a major funding package of around £55 billion to support research and development (R&D) across the UK over the Spending Review period ending 2029/30. The funding is described as a real-terms increase and is intended to back breakthroughs in health, clean energy, artificial intelligence and … Read more
What today’s adoption patterns mean for SMEs planning their AI journey Artificial intelligence isn’t just another tech trend—it’s rewriting the rules of business at record speed. In just two years, workplace AI usage in the U.S. has doubled from 20% to 40% of employees, according to Anthropic’s latest Economic Index Report. That’s faster than electricity, … Read more
Research England’s announcement of a £9.7 million investment in the National Centre for Universities and Business (NCUB) over the next four years signals a significant opportunity for businesses seeking innovation funding and partnerships. This funding commitment represents more than just financial support—it’s a clear indication that university-business collaboration is now recognised as a critical driver … Read more
The UK farming landscape is changing fast, and staying ahead of the curve means embracing innovation. That’s why the latest news from the Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and Innovate UK is so significant for farmers and growers. A new £12.6 million in grant funding has been announced, specifically designed to turn … Read more
The UK government has announced a new £500 million Local Innovation Partnerships Fund, and it marks a significant shift in how innovation is supported across the country. Instead of a blanket approach, this fund is designed to put power directly into the hands of local leaders, empowering them to invest in their region’s unique strengths … Read more