The Government’s new Modern Industrial Strategy is already delivering results — securing over £250 billion of investment and supporting 45,000 high-quality jobs across the UK since its
launch in June.
This early success highlights the Government’s commitment to building a stronger, more innovative, and more resilient economy, and shows that the plan is already transforming industries and communities nationwide.
A strong start for a modern economy
In just a few months, investment has poured into the strategy’s eight key growth sectors — from advanced manufacturing and clean energy to digital technologies, creative industries, and defence.
These figures form part of the first Quarterly Update, published today, which outlines progress made under the Industrial Strategy (known as IS-8). It marks an important milestone in delivering the Plan for Change — the Government’s blueprint for long-term, regionally balanced growth.
Business and Trade Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Our Industrial Strategy has hit the ground running — securing over £250 billion in investment and supporting 45,000 jobs in just a few months. This shows our strategy is not just working — it’s transforming communities and industries across the country as we deliver on our Plan for Change.
From pioneering clean energy to scaling up advanced manufacturing and digital innovation, we’re backing the sectors that will define the future. This strategy is about delivery, not just ambition — and it’s already laying the foundations for a stronger, more resilient economy that works for everyone”.
Sector highlights
Advanced manufacturing
The DRIVE35 programme is delivering a £2.5 billion boost to the automotive industry, funding capital investment and research and development. A £650 million EV grant scheme is helping consumers make the switch to electric vehicles, while over 50 innovation projects have already secured £70 million in funding.
Clean energy
The UK’s clean energy revolution continues to accelerate. The latest Contracts for Difference round has launched with a £544 million budget, while ten hydrogen projects are now moving ahead, creating more than 700 jobs. Two new carbon capture and storage projects have joined the HyNet cluster, expected to support nearly 3,000 jobs across North Wales and the North West.
Creative industries
To champion the UK’s world-leading creative sector, the Government is investing £150 million through the Creative Places Growth Fund in regions like the West Midlands and Greater Manchester. New qualifications and a Creative Careers Programme are also being rolled out to inspire the next generation of talent.
Defence
A new £182 million Defence Skills package will create five Defence Technical Excellence Colleges, while £220 million is being invested in advanced testing and evaluation. Another £65 million will support small businesses and exporters in the defence sector.
Digital and technology
A new AI Growth Zone in the North East is expected to create 5,000 jobs and attract more than £30 billion in private investment. The UK-US Tech Prosperity Agreement is also opening new opportunities in AI, quantum technologies, and digital trade.
Financial services
The UK is strengthening its position as a global financial hub with a new Office for Investment concierge service, launching this month to streamline support for international investors. A consultation on regulatory reform is underway, including plans to merge the Payment Systems Regulator and Financial Conduct Authority — simplifying oversight and boosting innovation.
Life sciences
The UK continues to lead in life sciences, with Europe’s first Biofoundry for mRNA manufacturing opening in Darlington — backed by £30 million in government support. A £50 million R&D Investment Fund Pilot is live, alongside Moderna’s new Innovation and Technology Centre, part of a £1 billion partnership. A new £600 million Health Data Research Service will also provide secure, streamlined access to NHS data to accelerate scientific discovery.
Professional and business services
The sector is embracing a digital-first future through a new Made Smarter model, co-developed with regional mayors for rollout in 2026. Meanwhile, the ‘Made in the UK, Sold to the World’ roadshow recently stopped in Edinburgh — connecting small businesses with global trade opportunities and showcasing British innovation on the world stage.
Building the future, now
With over £250 billion secured and tens of thousands of jobs supported in just a few months, the UK’s Industrial Strategy is proving to be more than words — it’s action.
The Government’s focus is clear: to turn ambition into delivery, ensuring every region of the UK shares in the growth of a modern, future-ready economy.