Technology and AI

West Yorkshire is recognised by UK Government as a world leader in tech and AI, with the largest population of AI students in the UK.

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It's a vibrant hub of innovation, featuring everything from start-ups to established tech giants.

The region ranks as the top spot in the UK for tech scale-ups, outside London and the South East. With over 43,000 graduates each year from our seven universities, we have a strong talent pool. This drives a thriving digital ecosystem and provides an ideal setting for digital and tech businesses to flourish.

West Yorkshire boasts a dynamic digital and tech scene.

A world leader

West Yorkshire is recognised by UK Government’s high potential opportunities programme as a world leader in data and artificial intelligence (AI). This shows the strong businesses, research centres and talent in the region to support potential investors.

Leeds has the third-largest concentration of high-growth companies in the UK outside London. The city's tech sector is growing 125% faster than the national average. Key growth areas include software development and cyber security.

Leeds Digital Festival is the UK's largest open platform tech event and the biggest digital festival outside London, providing a platform for exposure and engagement to businesses.

9,700

Digital, tech and AI businesses

50,000

People employed

43,000

Graduates annually

9,700

Digital, tech and AI businesses

50,000

People employed

43,000

Graduates annually

A collaborative ecosystem

West Yorkshire has become a hub for strategic partnerships and knowledge sharing, helping companies to leverage collective expertise.

Networking events and groups offer chances for cross-sector collaboration. Here are some opportunities for businesses:

The Digital Health Enterprise Zone is a hub for innovation, creative thinking, training and growth. They work with businesses, health professionals, researchers, students and communities to develop patient-focused digital health solutions.
Bradford’s Enterprise Ecosystem, a £2.5 million initiative, takes business ideas from concept to market. The Bradford-Renduchintala Enterprise Ecosystem (BREE) offers financial and mentoring support from business leaders to young entrepreneurs.
GaMaYo (Game Makers Yorkshire) is run by Game Republic. It provides an informal network for people who make video games in Yorkshire and the North of England.

How we can help you

With access to hard economic facts, case studies from leading companies and information on available business support, we can help you make the case for investing in West Yorkshire. Contact our experts for more information. All of our services are complementary, confidential and tailored to your needs.

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