The UK science and tech sectors in 2026

The UK science and tech sectors are well placed for continued growth in 2026, reinforcing the UK’s position as a global innovation leader.

As part of its industrial strategy, the government is set to continue its focus on science and technology sectors including advanced manufacturing, clean energy, defence technology, digital and technology, and life science. With the prospect of wider investment in research, the delivery of high-quality new development schemes in core regions, and scaling focus of regional offers, these sectors present compelling opportunities for investors seeking exposure to high-growth markets.

In 2026, a new pipeline of completed schemes is expected to emerge in key regions. We have been anticipating the delivery of these schemes for some time, and they will provide a test for new build specifications and market rents, as we see the competition to attract growing science and technology companies within the regions increase.

Cluster growth

Hubs in the “Golden Triangle” of London, Cambridge, and Oxford remain a core part of the UK’s R&D base, benefiting from proximity to world-renowned universities, talent pools, and venture capital funding. There is also a developed regional opportunity for companies looking to benefit from specific areas of expertise in cities including Birmingham, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Liverpool, which are now strong alternatives for scaling science and technology firms.

The regions offer a connected R&D infrastructure with opportunities to engage with leading expertise, skilled talent pools and a lower overall cost base. An increase in funding in 2026, particularly into scaling companies, would translate into future expansions and more demand for R&D space across the country.

Defence technology

The defence sectors have come under significant government focus over the last few months, with global events prompting a pledge to increase defence spending to the highest levels since the Cold War. This pledge will see an increase in spending to 2.5% of GDP from 2027, with the ambition of reaching 3% in the next parliament.

We have seen an impact across many science and technology sectors, from advanced materials and engineering to cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing. This presents a strong growth opportunity for the UK’s R&D infrastructure.