The UK has recently received a financial injection into its space and quantum technology programs via the Horizon funding grant. Horizon is the world’s largest research and development programme where organisations collaborate on innovative and novel technology.
The UK brokered the deal back in late 2023, officially rejoining the £80 billion scheme in early 2024. Since then, space and quantum technology businesses have been able to acquire much needed funding via the programme. And latest headlines outline that the UK has recently unlocked additional Horizon funding for greater collaborative efforts in these two sectors.
UK Science Minister, Lord Vallance, commented in a press release: “Thanks to this welcome news, the opportunities for British researchers and businesses working in quantum, space, and beyond are only set to grow.”
The UK’s New Found Riches Under The Horizon Program
The funding call comes after the UK braced for a visit from Maroš Šefčovič, the EU’s commissioner for trade and economic security. During his visit, Šefčovič will see the progress and strides made from the funding acquired. When the UK received the news they were officially part of Horizon, they were given access to approximately 95% of the funding – taking the lionshare. This is set to grow after the release of the 2025 Horizon Europe Work Program.
Little constraints were also placed on the UK, meaning organisations can work freely and autonomously on their projects. The latest headlines are expressing that “British experts working on space and quantum can now confidentially bid for a share of the c.£80 billion.” Funding is set to open from the end of May, 2025 to mid-June, 2025.
Since the funding was made available, the UK’s quantum computing industry has grown considerably. Not to mention, it is projected to inject around $5-10 billion across 3 to 5 years into the global economy. The funding has also made the UK one of the most attractive nations for private investment since 2025. That is, outside the US.
What Has The UK Done With Their Share Of The Horizon Funding
Organisations working under the Horizon program have focused on a range of key areas. This includes AI augmentation, computing, telecommunications, agritech and EuroHPC. All these systems have a place in the space industry. Particularly, AI, with more and more organisations pivoting to AI-integrated software. The UK stated: “Recent UK-EU engagement has ensured that the UK retains open access to all calls in these areas.” Sights are now set on showcasing the UK’s value to the Horizon programme. To do so, the UK plans to leverage their involvement in Copernicus and opening Saxavord Spaceport to the European market.
International Partnerships & Plans For The Future Under Horizon
Horizon also opens doors for the UK to collaborate with nations globally. DSIT said: “[We] can also build consortia with research partners across Europe, and beyond in Canada, Switzerland, and more.” Once the funding rounds are unlocked for organisations, the UK aims to apply their revelations in quantum computing to a range of industries. This includes healthcare, financial services, and logistics – who are already seeing the benefits according to DSIT.
Vallance concluded: “They now have greater access to one of the world’s foremost vehicles for R&D funding, and an even bigger chance to build the international ties which we know are critical to advancing knowledge, tackling the world’s biggest challenges, and delivering the economic growth that is at the heart of this Government’s Plan for Change.”
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