North West England
We are driving local impact across the North West through key programmes like our Innovation Accelerator and Launchpad.
The North West England Innovation Landscape
As the UK’s innovation system, we work across the country. We also know that each part of the country is unique with its own strengths and challenges. We are committed to working closely with partners and regional initiatives to ensure you get what you need to innovate and succeed.
The North West of England is renowned for connectivity and industry, best exemplified by its trademark canals, railways and factories. In the 21st century the area has been transformed into one of the UK’s leading technology hubs, digital, creative and media industries. With a GVA of £174bn, a population of 7.4m, 513K businesses, 10% of all the UK, and 3.5m employees, the Northwest is home to a thriving and rapidly expanding tech ecosystem.
MediaCityUK at Salford Quays is a prominent hub for media and digital businesses with a major presence from the BBC, with nine of the UK’s tech unicorns based within the region. The North West has established its credentials with success stories across multiple innovative industries.
We work collaboratively with the Mayoral Combined Authorities in the North West; Greater Manchester and Liverpool City Region. The collaborative relationship is underpinned by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Greater Manchester Combined Authority and Innovate UK.
In 2022, Innovate UK and Liverpool Combined Authority agreed a landmark partnership aimed at accelerating business innovation. The partnership is also delivering the Manufacturing Launchpad in Liverpool City Region supported by Lyva Labs.
REGIONAL ACTION PLAN
Partnering with Liverpool City Region to drive local impact
The pioneering Partnership Agreement between Innovate UK and the Liverpool City Region spearheads a bold new mission: systematic collaboration between national agencies and local leaders to ignite innovation ecosystems nationwide. Together, we will leverage the region’s distinctive assets to maximise impact, transforming this historic hub into a forward-looking hotbed of innovation.
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Accelerating Action on Social and Business Innovation for a Greener and Fairer Greater Manchester
Greater Manchester and Innovate UK are forging a partnership to spur innovation and economic growth in the North West and UK-wide. Their joint MOU emphasises social and business innovation, aiming to bolster research, partnerships, investment, and job creation. Priorities include green growth, advanced manufacturing, digital transformation, and inclusive prosperity. Central to this strategic partnership is the spirit of co-creation between Innovate UK and local leadership to catalyse innovation.
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PROGRAMMES
Programmes in the North West England
Explore our support networks and programmes.
OPPORTUNITIES
Opportunities in the North West England
Explore cross-regional funding, collaboration and support opportunities.
Related Case Studies
Med tech firm makes no bones about Innovate UK support benefits
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CONTACT US
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Engage with us wherever you are, for region-specific innovation, collaboration, and investment opportunities.