TechFirst Local

TechFirst Local is part of the government’s TechFirst initiative to improve skills across the UK’s digital sectors and help grow the economy. This funds local partnerships that help people develop the skills needed for jobs in fast-growing technology sectors, and supports employers to find the talent they need.

TechFirst Local was launched on 28 January 2026 as part of the government’s announcement on improving AI skills.

The programme focuses on frontier technologies including: 

TechLocal has 2 separate grant funding competitions, each with different aims, eligibility and requirements. 

TechFirst: Connecting local talent to local tech jobs

To support at least 1,000 people into tech jobs across the UK by funding projects that connect skilled individuals with local employment opportunities - particularly in SMEs.

Projects must focus on helping people move into entry-level tech roles (minimum 25 hours per week for at least 6 months).

Applications for 2026 have closed. Winning projects will be announced shortly.

Applications for 2027 will open in October 2026. They must be submitted through the Innovation Funding Service (IFS). Full guidance on scope, eligibility and assessment criteria will be provided within the service.

TechLocal: AI Professional Degree and Traineeship Accelerator 

To develop AI focused professional practice degree courses, graduate traineeships and work experience opportunities that provide industry ready AI skills, aligned to local and strategic demand.