This investment area will support high level, commercially focused research, development and innovation with key Programme Area growth sectors; resulting in increased productivity and higher export levels; and sustainable employment. It will deliver major change innovation projects, which result in lasting local and national economic and social benefits.

Investment in collaborative innovation is key to the economic development of the Programme Area and beyond. Innovation leads to increased levels of productivity, which in turn deliver higher export volumes and sustainable employment.  It is important to support innovation at all levels but with a particular emphasis on Programme Area level, major change projects, which will deliver significant benefit to the Programme Area.