Creative industries receive research funding

The Technology Strategy Board will channel £7 million into 13 innovative collaborative research and development projects aiming to look at areas such as motion sensing systems and computer-aided game design.

In addition, 11 short-term research and development projects will receive up to £50,000 each and 75 small and medium-sized businesses will gain £15,000 for feasibility studies which could lead to further full-scale initiatives.

If the UK is to maintain and extend its role as the world’s creative hub, we need to both exploit well-established technologies in new ways

Ian Pearson

Science and Innovation Minister

Ian Pearson, Science and Innovation Minister, commented: "If the UK is to maintain and extend its role as the world’s creative hub, we need to both exploit well-established technologies in new ways and develop the new and innovative technologies that will support the sector in the years to come.

The Minister also pointed out that the creative industries contribute almost eight per cent to the UK's gross value added, while Technology Strategy Board’s chief executive Iain Gray said the sector receives a great contribution from smaller firms.

Earlier this year, the board revealed a £20 million investment in research for the manufacturing industry, aimed to develop a range of projects such as carbon-neutral construction products and auto parts from sustainable resources.