UK Research and Innovation has outlined how it will deploy a record £38.6 billion research and development budget over the next four years under its new UKRI R&D investment plan. The strategy includes £1 billion dedicated to quantum computing research and development, alongside major funding for business innovation and foundational science.
The UKRI R&D investment plan explains how funding will be distributed across priority areas identified as critical to long-term economic growth and research strength. The allocation covers financial years from 2026–27 through 2029–30 and reflects a shift toward a more outcome-focused approach to public research spending.
Funding priorities across research and innovation
UKRI has grouped its investment into several broad categories designed to balance discovery research with commercial impact. Around £14 billion will support curiosity driven research that underpins the wider research ecosystem. This funding is intended to sustain early stage science and long term inquiry across disciplines.
A further £8 billion within the UKRI R&D investment plan will be directed toward targeted research addressing national and societal challenges, including clean energy, health resilience, and security-related research. UKRI said this work is expected to deliver measurable outcomes while strengthening core research capabilities.
About £7 billion has been allocated to support innovative company growth. This funding is expected to help businesses scale new technologies, move research into commercial use, and build stronger links between research institutions and industry. UKRI said this category is designed to help companies progress from early innovation to wider market adoption.
The remaining portion of the £38.6 billion settlement under the UKRI R&D investment plan will support foundational investments such as skills development, research infrastructure, and systems that enable collaboration across sectors.
£1 billion commitment to quantum research
Quantum computing and related technologies will receive £1 billion over the four year period. UKRI has positioned quantum research as a strategic area with strong potential for economic and technological impact.
The funding will support research programmes, infrastructure, and collaboration between academic teams and industry partners. UKRI indicated that quantum investment is part of a broader effort to focus on areas where the UK can build global leadership and strong commercial outcomes.
By committing long term funding, the agency aims to provide stability for research teams and encourage private sector participation in advanced technology development.
Investment approach and business relevance
UKRI stated that its new allocation model is outcome focused, meaning direct comparisons with previous budgets are not straightforward. The approach emphasizes selecting fewer priorities and supporting them at scale, rather than spreading funding across many smaller initiatives.
The agency plans to work closely with businesses to ensure research investment aligns with market needs. This includes supporting technology transfer, improving access to research facilities, and helping firms navigate the path from research to revenue.
UKRI expects annual research and innovation spending to reach close to £10 billion per year under this plan. The organization said its goal is to advance knowledge, improve quality of life, and support sustainable economic growth through targeted and coordinated investment.
For entrepreneurs and business leaders, the UKRI R&D investment plan signals continued government backing for innovation, advanced technologies, and research partnerships, potentially opening new opportunities for collaboration, funding access, and long-term growth across the UK innovation ecosystem.
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