The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has announced a new plan to cement the UK as a global science and technology superpower by 2030, backed by over £370 million in funding.
The plan sets out 10 key actions to coordinate an approach to re-establish the UK’s science and tech credentials, which includes achieving strategic advantage, building on existing talent and boosting investment.
The Science and Technology Framework is the first major piece of work from the department and hopes to see the UK take a global lead in game-changing technologies, such as AI, cementing the UK’s position in the sector.
Nadeem Gabbani, Founder of Exobotics, comments: “It is great to see the government leading plans to support the science and technology industry, driving job creation and the development of emerging technologies to facilitate the growth of these high potential sectors as well as the UK economy.”
“The investment can have a significant impact on industries such as space, benefiting from newly developed technologies for bespoke payloads alongside creating a highly skilled workforce.”
“As the number of space startups continues to rise and SMEs expand, continual support and investment will be a key driver, promoting collaboration and technological adoption. Satellite technology, for example, can offer data and insights to help solve macro issues such as climate change, while benefiting companies in the FinTech and agricultural sectors, making space accessible to everyone.”
Michelle Donelan, Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary, said “Innovation and technology are our future. They hold the keys to everything from raising productivity and wages, to transforming healthcare, reducing energy prices and ultimately creating jobs and economic growth in the UK, providing the financial firepower allowing us to spend more on public services.
That is why, today, we are putting the full might of the British government and our private sector partners behind our push to become a scientific and technological superpower, because only through being world-leaders in future industries like AI and quantum will we be able to improve the lives of every Briton.”
The news comes following the creation of the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology during the cabinet reshuffle last month.