Ground-breaking projects driving advanced manufacturing and clean energy across the East Midlands are being backed by up to £20 million in UK government innovation funding to boost regional growth and jobs.
Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has confirmed the plans to support innovators in the region – developed in a partnership led by the East Midlands Combined County Authority – through the UK government’s £500m Local Innovation Partnerships Fund.
The fund, operated by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), supports partnerships between local government, businesses and research organisations which develop practical solutions that create jobs and improve people’s lives.
Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward said: “This announcement is a strong vote of confidence in the East Midlands and our ability to lead in advanced manufacturing and clean energy. It reflects our proud industrial heritage and the innovation driving our future growth.
“Working with UKRI and partners, we will build on our strengths to support businesses, accelerate new technologies and turn ideas into jobs and opportunity.
“There is more to do, but we are ambitious for what this funding can unlock — creating a greener, stronger economy that delivers for communities across our region.”
The funding will help manufacturers across the East Midlands scale up clean energy and advanced production technologies.
The programme is designed to support industries from nuclear and aerospace to robotics and clean power – attracting investment, creating skilled jobs and strengthening the UK’s ability to build and deploy the technologies needed for a low-carbon future.
It will build on the regional strength of having thousands of people already employed in advanced manufacturing and clean energy in the region, which hosts global companies including Rolls-Royce, Toyota, Alstom and ITP Aero.
Local partners will now work with UKRI to design projects which target this investment, building on existing local strengths. It will help to fast-track ideas from prototype to market, back collaborative research and development (R&D), attract expert talent, and open up clear routes to investment and new markets.
Ms Kendall said: “It is a tribute to the pioneering spirit in every corner of our country that we are backing nations and regions across the UK to advance innovation in everything from defence to AI and clean energy to space tech.
“In the East Midlands, this support will help scale advanced manufacturing and clean energy, translating regional expertise into jobs and sustainable growth.
“By working with local leaders, researchers, and businesses, we can unleash transformational research and products that improve lives.”
The Local Innovation Partnerships Fund forms part of the government’s £86 billion R&D settlement until 2030.
Prof Sir Ian Chapman, UKRI chief executive, said: “The East Midlands has long been home to world-class ingenuity and a proud tradition of delivering real impact from great ideas. UKRI is delighted to work with the East Midlands (Advanced Manufacturing and Clean Energy) Local Innovation Partnership as they accelerate bold plans to build on that legacy and drive the region’s next wave of innovation-led growth.
“By bringing together the region’s researchers, entrepreneurs and civic leaders, we are strengthening East Midlands’ distinctive capabilities and championing its ambition on the national stage. This major investment will unlock new opportunities, boost productivity and create the high-skilled jobs of the future. We’re excited at the prospect of achieving that together.”
Published on: 3 April 2026
Categories: Net Zero, News, Skills and Employment