The UK government has confirmed a record £55 billion investment in research and development (R&D), aimed at accelerating scientific breakthroughs, driving economic growth, and strengthening the country’s global leadership in innovation. The funding, announced on 30 October 2025, will run through to 2029/30 and represents the largest-ever commitment by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT).
Long-Term Backing for Science and Innovation
The package will raise DSIT’s overall R&D budget to £58.5 billion, providing long-term stability for universities, research bodies, and businesses. According to government analysis, every £1 of public R&D spending generates £8 in wider economic benefit and attracts £2 in private investment, underscoring the multiplier effect of sustained public funding.
Funding Breakdown
The allocations include:
- £38 billion for UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), with nearly £10 billion earmarked for 2029/30.
- £400 million annually for the Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) by 2029/30, supporting high-risk, high-reward projects.
- £1.4 billion for the Met Office, reinforcing the UK’s leadership in climate science.
- £900 million for the National Academies to advance fundamental research.
- £550 million for the National Measurement System, ensuring standards and precision in science and industry.
- £240 million for the AI Safety Institute, reflecting the government’s focus on responsible artificial intelligence.
Building on Past Successes
Publicly funded R&D has already underpinned major advances, from scaling companies like Oxford Nanopore and Cobalt Light Systems to supporting BioNTech’s UK cancer research centres (£129 million), 100 nationwide health research projects (£80 million), and clean manufacturing technologies (£44 million).
Government Commitment
Science and Technology Secretary Liz Kendall described the investment as essential to “backing our best and brightest researchers and innovators,” adding that their work will “create tomorrow’s industries, boosting growth and transforming public services now and in the future.”
Economic and Social Impact
R&D activity currently supports around 3 million UK jobs, with businesses receiving public R&D grants experiencing 21% employment growth and 23% turnover growth within six years. The government argues that this investment will not only secure the UK’s position as a global science leader but also deliver tangible benefits in health, security, and clean energy.
Conclusion
The £55 billion commitment forms part of the UK’s Plan for Change, designed to ensure that innovation remains central to national prosperity. By combining long-term funding with targeted support for emerging technologies, the government aims to foster breakthroughs that will shape industries, improve lives, and sustain economic resilience well into the next decade.
Sources: UK Government Press Release; Public Sector Executive; SME Web.
