The UK government has launched a £20 million fund to support small, innovative British startups in the defence sector, aiming to accelerate technology development for the Armed Forces. The initiative, part of a broader £7.5 billion commitment to SMEs by 2028, targets businesses fully or partially UK-owned. Contracts through the fund will prioritize technologies like AI, robotics, and precision weapons, led by UK Defence Innovation. Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs, stating the goal is to make Britain the best place to grow defence businesses. The move includes new procurement tools, such as ‘Lite’ Enterprise Agreements, and the Office of Small Business Growth to simplify access to defence contracts. The strategy aligns with the Defence Industrial Strategy, aiming to strengthen national security through innovation and job creation.
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https://www.gov.uk/government/news/search-for-britains-next-defence-unicorn-kicks-off-with-new-20-million-fund
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