The UKTN / Lloyds Roundtables are a series of events which bring together tech founders, executives and industry advisors to discuss topical issues and opportunities for business growth, technology, scaling and international expansion.
This session focused on the Oxford-Cambridge Arc, and here I share some of my key highlights and takeaways from the meeting.
Shaping success in the Oxford–Cambridge Arc
The Oxford–Cambridge Arc is a designated growth region in England, running between the cities of Oxford and Cambridge via Milton Keynes, and covering the five counties of Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Northamptonshire, Bedfordshire and Cambridgeshire.
Cambridge continues to establish itself as one of the world’s leading innovation centres, particularly strong in deep tech, AI, and life sciences, but we also discussed how other areas in the region can be supported.
“If each location can build on its unique strengths, we can create a network of complementary centres of excellence and leaders in their fields. This targeted approach is far more powerful than trying to be everything everywhere or a single city trying to do it all.”
“For example, Bicester is focusing on repowering ICE vehicles to electric and hydrogen technology, Bedford on drones and autonomous flying systems as well as food technology innovations at Colworth Science Park, Milton Keynes on smart cities, sustainable transport, and urban mobility, and Cambridge on biotech and life-sciences innovation.”
Collaboration as a catalyst for growth
We also discussed how partnerships across the Oxford-Cambridge corridor are driving innovation and enabling regional ecosystems to scale faster. Collaboration between universities, investors and accelerators is seen as key to maintaining momentum.
“The collaboration and focus across the Oxford-Cambridge corridor as a whole is a great example to other regions and can help power national growth.”
The role of universities and talent
Cambridge’s research excellence and ability to commercialise academic breakthroughs were recognised as defining advantages. However, it was also stressed that universities could do more to nurture entrepreneurial mindsets among students and researchers.
While academic rigour remains a strength, there’s a growing need to translate that excellence into more spin-outs and scale-ups that can thrive commercially.
Challenges and the road ahead
Despite the strong ecosystem, it was agreed that targeted government intervention – through tax incentives, funding schemes, and infrastructure investment – will be crucial to sustain growth. The goal of the UK producing 50 % of all new European unicorns by 2030 is ambitious, and regions like Cambridge are seen as central to achieving it.
The discussion emphasised that continued access to talent, capital, and collaborative networks will determine whether Cambridge can maintain its upward trajectory on the global stage.
Looking forward
In October 2025, Rachael Reeves announced that over £500 million has been committed to deliver new housing, infrastructure, and business space across the corridor. This funding demonstrates the government’s commitment to supporting growth in the region and ensuring the infrastructure keeps pace with the innovation ecosystem.
“This investment will be a major boost for the region, creating new opportunities for tech businesses and ensuring that the corridor continues to thrive as a hub for innovation and economic growth.”
Specialist tech and scale-up accountants
As specialists in tech and scale-up businesses, we are delighted to participate in the UKTN / Lloyds Bank Roundtables. These discussions allow us to contribute to the development of the sector while gaining insights that help us shape our services to best support our clients’ growth journeys.
From fractional CFO support and tax advisory to R&D credits, payroll, and financial modelling, contact us to explore how we can support your growth ambitions.
Further reading
You can read UKTN’s coverage of this roundtable event here.
Adam specialises in supporting high-growth scale-ups and technology firms.
