TechLocal Grant Competition

13th February 2026

TechLocal, is a Department for Science and Innovation Technology (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.

Part of the wider TechFirst Initiative, TechLocal is a four year programme 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 opened 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:

Applications open: 4 February 2026
Deadline: 18 March 2026 (11:00 UK time)
Notifications: 27 April 2026
Earliest project start: 1 July 2026 

The competition will be delivered by Innovate UK.

Click here for full guidance, eligibility and assessment criteria

For any queries, please contact Innovate UK by email: support@iuk.ukri.org or call 0300 321 4357

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