Technology industry leaders have responded to the UK government’s newly launched Industrial Strategy, which aims to unlock billions in investment and create 1.1m well-paid jobs over the next decade.
The comprehensive plan targets eight key sectors including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, creative industries, defence, digital and technology, financial services, and professional and business services. Each sector will operate under its own 10-year roadmap designed to attract investment, accelerate business growth and generate employment opportunities.
Under the strategy, more than 5,500 small and medium-sized businesses will receive support in adopting new technology through the Made Smarter programme, with assistance coordinated under the Business Growth Service.
The government has committed to increasing research and development (R&D) funding to £22.6bn annually by 2029–30, including more than £2bn dedicated to AI development and £2.8bn for advanced manufacturing over the next decade.
Prime Minister Kier Starmer said: “This Industrial Strategy marks a turning point for Britain’s economy and a clear break from the short-termism and sticking plasters of the past.
“This is how we power Britain’s future – by backing the sectors where we lead, removing the barriers that hold us back, and setting out a clear path to build a stronger economy that works for working people. Our message is clear: Britain is back and open for business.”
Commenting on the strategy, Cisco UK&I CEO, Sarah Walker, welcomed the launch. She said: “Having collaborated closely with the Government on its development, the urgency now lies in expediting its deployment. Technology will play a pivotal role in its success.
“As well as being one of the eight growth driving sectors, the role of technology will be key across the board, and also offers an opportunity to scale the Government’s AI Action Plan both across industry and regionally in the UK.”
This comes as, according to Cisco’s latest UK AI Readiness Index, only 10% of UK organisations are fully prepared to harness AI’s potential. Meanwhile, 86% believe they have 18 months or less to implement an AI strategy before suffering significant negative business impacts.
Mark Boost, CEO of Civo added: “The ambition in this Industrial Strategy is exactly what the UK tech industry has been asking for: long-term thinking, real investment in AI, and a clear commitment to economic leadership through innovation. But we’ve been here before. Promises on sovereignty ring hollow when billions still go to overseas cloud giants while British providers are overlooked.”
Meanwhile, Chris Knight, VP of automotive at NTT DATA UK&I continued: “Initiatives like AI Growth Zones and advanced manufacturing clusters will help make next generation supply chains a reality. They give us the tools to address chronic weak points in UK supply chains. UK firms often have digital islands inside plants that don’t link to procurement, logistics, or suppliers.”
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