TechLocal; new grant opportunities
Published: 29 January 2026
About TechLocal
TechLocal is a regional grant fund designed to support local employers and tech talent across all parts of the UK. Delivered by Innovate UK, it aims to help regional innovators and small businesses find skilled people, connecting them to roles that create growth.
About the competitions
Opening date: 4 Feb 2026
Closing date 18 Mar 2026
Competition 1: Connecting Local Talent to Local Tech Jobs
UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £7.6m to enable career and growth opportunities in the tech sector.
Competition 2: AI Professional Practice Degree and Graduate Traineeship Accelerator
UK academic institutions can apply for a share of up to £7.8 million to develop new AI professional practice degrees to address local demand for AI skills that are industry-ready.
Get help applying
For support with applying for these or any other funds/opportunities contact a Business Growth West Midlands Adviser; our advice is free and impartial.
You can also contact Innovate UK directly by email: support@iuk.ukri.org. Or call 0300 321 4357 (9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm UK time, Monday to Friday).