The Catapult network has welcomed the ambition of the government’s Industrial Strategy to make the UK the ‘world’s most innovative nation by 2030’.
Catapults are identified as an ‘important and successful part of the UK’s innovation eco-system’ and earmarked for a ‘growing role’ in the Industrial Strategy, helping to commercialise new and emerging technologies.
The Industrial Strategy highlights the High Value Manufacturing Catapult as an exemplar of the Catapult model, and showcases successful interventions by the Offshore Renewable Energy, Transport and Digital Catapults.
It points also to the network’s contribution to the UK’s international reputation in innovation.
Dick Elsy, CEO of the High Value Manufacturing Catapult, speaking on behalf of the network, said: “The Catapult network welcomes the Government’s focus on innovation in the Industrial Strategy, and its recognition of the important role played by Catapults and other organisations that bridge the gap between research in our universities, and businesses across the country.
“The announcement of £178m in funding to continue the work of Catapults is particularly welcome, but just as important is the Government’s commitment to a long-term strategy that takes risks in order to tackle the major challenges facing the UK economy.
“The Industrial Strategy rightly aims to ensure that innovation flourishes across the UK. The new Strength in Places Fund is a welcome boost to collaboration and will help to build innovation clusters and drive productivity in areas throughout the country.”
