London may remain Europe’s leading tech hub, however, the new initiative aims to narrow the gap between the capital and regional technology ecosystems. It will address key hurdles, including entrepreneur support, access to funding, and skills development.

To deliver on its aims, it promises to deliver tailored support programmes for tech founders, such as mentoring, investment showcase events, and workshops designed to share best practices across regional tech communities.

Baroness Jones, Minister for Tech and Future Digital Economy, said: “Tech innovation doesn’t stop at the M25 and we’re choosing to invest in the talent and ideas flourishing across the UK.

“This investment forms an important part of our Plan for Change to kickstart economic growth in every part of the UK. By supporting regional tech entrepreneurs, we’re creating the conditions for innovation and prosperity to flourish.”

This new initiative complements existing government support for regional development, including Project Gigabit, the Local Innovation Partnership Fund, AI Growth Zones, and a plethora of digital skills programmes. It also demonstrates a strategic choice to invest in regional tech ecosystems as part of the government’s wider industrial strategy.

Katie Gallagher, chair of the UKTCG and Managing Director of Manchester Digital, said: “The UK’s nations and regions are home to a diverse and growing network of tech ecosystems. They already make a vital contribution to the economy and with the right support, they can do even more.

“We’re pleased that DSIT has selected the UK Tech Cluster Group to pilot a new approach. This programme will focus on collaboration, connecting clusters, sharing best practice, supporting founders and entrepreneurs and creating a practical playbook for building strong, sustainable regional tech economies.

“With members from across the UK’s nations and regions, UKTCG is uniquely placed to deliver this work ensuring every part of the country benefits from the UK’s thriving tech sector.”

The UK Tech Cluster Group will set its sights on long-term impact, pledging to ensure the programme leaves a lasting legacy well beyond the initial wave of funding. By joining forces with industry players, academic institutions, and local tech leaders, it aims to reinforce the foundations of regional tech ecosystems around the nation.

Details on how regional tech clusters can apply for the programmes will be revealed later this year.

For more startup news, check out the other articles on the website, and subscribe to the magazine for free. Listen to The Cereal Entrepreneur podcast for more interviews with entrepreneurs and big-hitters in the startup ecosystem.