The UK Innovation Corridor’s Universities Group is developing new work to strengthen agritech collaboration and help more innovative businesses start, grow and stay in the Corridor.
At its latest meeting, the group focused on preparations for an agritech summit in spring 2027 and how universities, businesses and public-sector partners can work together to improve the commercialisation of research.
The emerging agritech programme is connecting research with farmer engagement, early-stage businesses and green finance. Work with Rothamsted and Middlesex is progressing, while Cambridge connections are being explored through the Sainsbury Laboratory and Cambridge Enterprise’s Ceres AgriTech activity. The planned summit could also align with UCL’s Future Food Systems initiative and explore opportunities for international research and investment.
Members also discussed how the Corridor’s partnership of universities, local government and businesses can strengthen the journey from research to commercial activity. Priorities include improving access to finance and business support, recognising licensing alongside spinouts, and ensuring growing companies can find the right premises and support within the Corridor.
A focused workshop will now explore where joint action could make the greatest difference, bringing businesses, investors and property partners into the conversation.
The meeting also included updates on Hertfordshire’s new medical school, UEL’s employer partnerships and forthcoming AI apprenticeship modules, emerging research opportunities with CEME, and the Innovate Cambridge Summit.
Together, the work reflects a clear ambition: to connect the Corridor’s research strengths more effectively with businesses, investment and opportunities for long-term growth.
