Government unveils aerospace innovation funding for local authorities

The government has announced a £273m funding package to advance low-carbon aerospace innovation, boost economic growth and create jobs. The funding aims to help develop new technologies, such as NHS-treatment-carrying drones and solar-powered aircraft.

As part of the package, local authorities and regulators will be able to access £12m through the Regulators’ Pioneer Fund to fund initiatives that could unlock industries of the future through regulation. This fund is to support initiatives by local authorities and regulators that enable the UK’s regulatory environment to keep up with cutting-edge innovation. Bidding for this will open on 21 July, with bids of up £1 million per project.

The package also includes £155m through the Aerospace Technology Institute Programme to support new projects unlocking the latest in green aerospace innovation, with £105.5m to be shared by projects focused on developing air transport systems and enabling new vehicle technologies through the Future Flight Challenge.

Business secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said: 'Through funding for the latest in green technology, such as solar and hydrogen powered aircraft, and setting out our vision for the fast-growing market for commercial drones, we are once again placing the aerospace sector directly at the centre of our plans to deliver jobs and grow the economy.'