UNEE welcomes government investment in region’s innovation ecosystem

11th June 2025

Funding to develop the innovation ecosystem in the North East has been warmly welcomed by Universities for North East England (UNEE).

The announcement of significant new investment in research and development across the UK, was made as part of the Government’s Comprehensive Spending review today.

The £86 billion national commitment – set to rise to £22.5 billion annually by 2029–30 – includes targeted support for regions through a new Local Innovation Partnerships Fund, with England’s metro mayors receiving at least £30 million each to back local research priorities.

Professor Jane Robinson, Chair of the UNEE executive committee said: “This is clear recognition of the importance of developing the innovation ecosystem in the North East of England. Our universities are already global leaders in clean energy, life sciences, health innovation, advanced manufacturing and digital technologies. With this investment, we can go further - scaling research, building partnerships, and helping drive inclusive economic growth.

“We stand ready to work with the North East Combined Authority to ensure that this funding delivers for our people, communities and industries. By bringing together academic excellence and regional leadership, we can create a high-impact innovation ecosystem that benefits the whole UK.”

Universities for North East England is the unified voice of higher education in North East England, advocating for evidence-based policy development, investment, and widening access and participation in higher education. It involves Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and Teesside Universities.

The five universities recently secured £8.9 million for a five-year programme to strengthen collaboration between universities, businesses and others to drive growth and create jobs. They are also working with the North East Combined Authority on significant support for spin out businesses.

For more information about Universities for North East England, please visit our UNEE webpages or contact: info@unee.ac.uk.