DSIT Launches the TechLocal - a TechFrist Initiative
TechLocal, a new DSIT-funded programme designed to strengthen regional tech ecosystems, accelerate local job creation, and expand access to high‑quality skills pathways in key frontier technologies
TechLocal is part of the wider £187 million TechFirst initiativeand will invest £27 million over four years to create up to 1,000 tech jobs in communities across the UK and enable the creation of new professional practice courses, graduate traineeships, and work experience opportunities in AI.
Two grant competitions will open on 4 February 2026
Competition 1 – Connecting Local Talent to Local Tech Jobs
Supporting collaborative projects that help people with tech skills move into entry-level tech roles across the UK, with a strong emphasis on local impact, supporting women, and SME engagement. Projects will empower SMEs and local organisations to recruit and retain tech talent, using creative approaches and addressing local skills gaps. Grants range from £100k–£225k.
Competition 2 – AI Professional Degree & Traineeship Accelerator
Funding the development and delivery of new Level 6/7 AI professional practice degrees, graduate traineeships, and industry‑embedded work experience. Projects must address the local and strategic demand for Artificial Intelligence (AI) skilled individuals ready to enter the industry job market. Grants of £100k–£300k will be available, with strong emphasis on supporting women, regional impact, and employer partnerships.
Competition timings:
- Publication: 28 January 2026
- Applications open: 4 February 2026
- Applicant Briefing Sessions: 10 February 2026: 11.30 for Competition 1 and 14.00 for Competition 2
- Deadline: 18 March 2026 (11:00 UK time)
- Notifications: 27 April 2026
- Earliest project start: 1 July 2026
The competition will be delivered by InnovateUK. Full guidance, including eligibility and assessment criteria, is available on both TechLocal gov.uk and via the following Innovate UK competition pages
TechLocal: Connecting Local Talent to Local Tech Jobs - Innovate UK Business Connect
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