New investment to boost the city’s technology sector

Milton Keynes is renowned as a popular location for businesses of all types, from start-ups to international HQs, and the council is passionate about supporting them wherever it can. It is vital that we work with them to help create opportunities for the local community and grow our economy, so it is great news that our Economic Recovery Plan has helped so many local businesses.

Milton Keynes City Council’s four-year, £3.6m Economic Recovery Plan has finished on schedule, having provided intensive support to over 1,700 local businesses and over 8,000 individuals between winter 2020 and spring 2024.

The award-winning Economic Recovery Plan was created to revitalise businesses in the city and provide employment opportunities for the local community in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The programme focused on young people and women who have been disproportionately affected by the pandemic.

The plan has helped businesses across a range of sectors, from technology to the creative arts, from sole traders to large companies looking to innovate. The council has unlocked projects with training and skills providers so local people can get support. Many of the projects have helped people returning to work and young people looking for work.

Some of the key projects of the Economic Recovery Plan include:

• Women into Work – the council has invested in a range of training and skills programmes to help women get back into work. The programme has supported over 500 women into work or training. The scheme has been recognised across the industry, with the Local Government Association highlighting the positive impact the programme has had on women.
• Green Recovery – Through its Net Zero project, the city council has helped over 800 businesses take steps to reduce their carbon footprint. Businesses have had access to grants and workshops to help tackle the climate crisis.
• Technology and AI – The Economic Recovery Plan has supported a range of AI initiatives, including developing an AI Development Programme and bringing together leaders and researchers to develop and strengthen AI skills in the city. Most recently, the city council launched the MK Tech Fund for start-ups to help tech talent stay in the city, creating new jobs and opportunities.
• Young people – working with MK College, Future Wolverton and MK Melting Pot, the council has supported hundreds of young people into work and training. Young people have used these opportunities to gain qualifications and start careers in hospitality, social care and culture and tourism. Over 2,800 students have signed up to over 120 employment sessions through WorkTree during the scheme.

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Further information about Milton Keynes City Council can be found on the official government website.