TechFirst Local
Details of the TechFirst local grant funding programme to boost digital skills and support people into tech jobs.
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Details
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:
- Artificial intelligence (AI)
- Cyber security
- Quantum computing
- Engineering biology
- Semiconductors
- Advanced connectivity technologies.
TechLocal has 2 separate grant funding competitions, each with different aims, eligibility and requirements.
TechFirst: Connecting local talent to local tech jobs
Aim
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).
What the funding supports
Projects that:
- Help newly trained individuals, career changers or returners move into tech jobs
- Support SMEs and local employers to recruit and retain tech talent
- Offer activities such as work placements, apprenticeships, mentoring or employer-led onboarding
- Address local skills gaps and contribute to local economic strengths
Funding available
- Total fund: up to £7.6 million
- Grant size per project: £100,000 - £225,000
- Application rounds: 2026 (now closed), 2027, 2028
How to apply
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
Aim
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.
What the funding supports
Projects that deliver:
- New or updated Level 6 or Level 7 AI courses with integrated work-based learning
- Graduate traineeships with industry mentorship
- Internships, work placements or co-operative education opportunities with local employers
- Strong partnerships between educators and employers
Funding available
- Total fund: up to £7.8 million over 4 years
- Grant size per project: £100,000 - £300,000
Applications for this competition have now closed. Winning projects will be announced shortly.
About TechFirst
TechFirst Local is part of TechFirst, the government’s flagship skills programme opening pathways into the UK’s fast-growing tech sector. For more information, visit the TechFirst page.
Updates to this page
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Guidance updated.
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First published.