A £1 million programme is set to offer support to tech entrepreneurs around the UK, including in Wales.
The UK Government-funded Regional Tech Booster scheme will provide mentoring, funding access and skills development for entrepreneurs outside of London. It aims to accelerate the growth of regional tech clusters and early-stage digital startups.
Mark John, Co-Founder of Tramshed Tech, said:
“As a member of the UK Tech Cluster Group, I’m pleased to share the news that our partnership has been appointed by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology to deliver the new Regional Tech Booster programme across the UK. This is a major vote of confidence in the role that our local tech ecosystems play in driving innovation and economic growth and recognises that our regional strengths, when connected and supported, can unlock national impact.”
Mark said that over ten months the Regional Tech Booster would:
• Support 10 regionally-led pilot projects across the English regions and Devolved Nations, offering mentoring, funding access and business support to tech founders.
• Launch a regional investment initiative to improve capital flow and connect local investors with startups.
• Run ecosystem workshops to share best practice and strengthen collaboration across the UK’s tech communities.
He said:
“What makes this programme different is that it’s locally delivered by ecosystem partners across the UK, who are nationally connected – joining the digital dots – and it’s focused on long-term sustainability rather than short-term fixes. This dovetails seamlessly with our ambitions and our work at Tramshed Tech to build a stronger, more joined-up tech ecosystem here, that reflects the diversity and potential of every region, including Wales.
“We’re looking forward to contributing our local insight to this fantastic tech growth programme, working closely with our great partners across the UK, and helping shape a practical playbook for future regional tech growth – and growing the Welsh tech ecosystem and digital economy.”
The UK Tech Cluster Group will focus on ensuring the programme delivers sustainable benefits that continue beyond the initial funding period, working closely with industry, academic institutions and local tech leaders to strengthen regional tech communities.
Information on how regional tech clusters can apply for the programmes will be announced later this year.
