Written evidence submitted by the Institutes of Technology (IGR0002)

Institutes of Technology (IoTs) are a national network of 21 partnerships stretching from Truro to Tyneside, collectively comprising 84 further education colleges, 36 universities, and 101 employer partners. Our mission is to equip individuals with the advanced technical skills needed to drive growth and meet the evolving needs of employers.

Established by the Department for Education and backed by £300 million in government investment into our industry-standard facilities, we specialise in the delivery of higher technical education in critical sectors such as advanced manufacturing, construction, creative, digital, and healthcare.

Operating as a coordinated national network, IoTs enable learners from all backgrounds to thrive, empowering them to innovate and contribute to the country’s economic success.

Driving Regional Growth and Prosperity Through Research and Innovation

How Does Research and Innovation in Our Regions Drive Growth and Prosperity?

Research and innovation are critical drivers of regional growth and prosperity, addressing skills gaps, fostering economic resilience, and enabling industries to adapt to global changes. As regional hubs Institutes of Technology (IoTs) play a pivotal role in aligning technical skills development with the specific needs of local industries, as demonstrated by initiatives such as:

• Skills Development in High-Value Sectors: IoTs provide industry-aligned training in areas such as advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and digital technologies, ensuring a workforce ready for the jobs of tomorrow.
• Example: The East Midlands IoT’s Future Energy Skills Hub provides higher technical skills tailored to clean energy and advanced manufacturing sectors.
• Collaboration with Industry: IoTs bridge education and industry, engaging over 100 employers to co-develop curricula and invest in cutting-edge training facilities.
• Example: Greater Birmingham & Solihull IoT’s Cyber Physical Manufacturing Rig integrates AI and IoT technologies to enhance workforce readiness.
• Catalysing Local Innovation Ecosystems: Partnerships with local councils, employers, and educational institutions foster innovation, creating a cohesive ecosystem.
• Example: The West of England IoT retrained workers displaced from automotive to aerospace roles, supporting regional economic resilience.

These targeted initiatives demonstrate how regionally driven research and innovation not only address immediate skills needs but also lay the foundation for long-term economic growth and sustainability.

Should There Be Region-Specific Innovation and Growth Policies?

Yes, region-specific policies are essential to address the unique needs and opportunities of different areas. Tailored approaches ensure that regions can maximize their growth potential while addressing localized challenges such as skills shortages, industry-specific demands, and economic disparities.

The National Network of IoTs highlights the importance of place-based partnerships to:

• Address Regional Skills Gaps: Expanding IoTs in underserved areas ensures equitable access to technical education, especially in regions like New Anglia or Leeds City, where demand for STEM skills is unmet.
• Enhance Industry Relevance: Sector-specific policies enable training programs that directly respond to local economic drivers, such as hydrogen technologies in the South East IoT.
• Promote Inclusive Growth: Regional strategies align skills development with local priorities, addressing employment disparities and fostering equitable opportunities across diverse communities.

Tailored policies allow regions to leverage their unique strengths, ensuring that innovation-driven growth is inclusive and sustainable.

What Should Local Government’s Role Be in This?

Local government is integral to the success of region-specific innovation and growth strategies. They act as enablers and collaborators, driving initiatives that align with regional priorities. Key roles include:

1. Strategic Planning and Investment:
• Facilitate partnerships between educational institutions, businesses, and industry leaders to ensure training aligns with future workforce needs.
• Example: The West Midlands Combined Authority’s role in securing Innovate UK funding for local colleges and Institutes of Technology highlights how local government can attract investment for skills development.
2. Policy Alignment and Support:
• Ensure that regional skills strategies complement national priorities like the Net Zero mission.
• Example: Collaboration with IoTs to embed green skills into technical qualifications supports both local and national economic goals.
3. Resource Allocation:
• Provide funding for infrastructure and modular courses to enable rapid upskilling in growth sectors.
• Example: East Midlands IoT’s government-backed investment in clean energy skills.
4. Driving Inclusive Growth:
• Address disparities in employment and skills opportunities by supporting programs like Local Skills Improvement Plans (LSIPs).
• Example - West of England IoT has led the Local Skills Improvement Fund for the region to support the Employer Representative Body, and was one of the initial 8 pilots of the LSIP programme.
5. Facilitating Innovation Ecosystems:
• Act as conveners to foster collaboration among businesses, universities, and IoTs, strengthening local innovation ecosystems.
• Example: Black Country & Marches IoT’s partnerships to provide SMEs with innovative manufacturing solutions.

Through these actions, local and regional government can ensure that research and innovation are effectively harnessed to drive regional prosperity, creating a skilled, adaptable workforce and fostering economic resilience.

6 January 2025