The UK government is providing nearly £1.1 million in funding to support British businesses trialling cutting-edge technologies that could revolutionize the freight and logistics sector.
Through the Freight Innovation Fund, up to £130,000 each will be awarded to nine small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) exploring solutions to key industry challenges, from decarbonisation and efficiency to staff wellbeing and skills development.
Innovations set to be trialled include lightweight trailers inspired by racing car aerodynamics, sensors designed to monitor staff wellbeing at ports, and eco-friendly electric trailers that can be pulled by bicycles rather than vehicles. All projects will be tested in real-world environments, creating a pipeline of technologies that could keep the British economy moving and enhance supply chain resilience.
Aviation, Maritime and Decarbonisation Minister Keir Mather said, “Our funding will allow businesses to start trialling their revolutionary technology on our roads, ports, and railways, helping grow the economy and prepare the freight industry for modern challenges.”
The Freight Innovation Fund builds on earlier successes. Since 2023, the scheme has supported 29 companies, 27 of which conducted real-world trials, attracting over £100 million in investment and creating 44 jobs. Previous beneficiaries, such as Ensemble Analytics, have leveraged the programme to refine platforms in collaboration with port operators, leading to commercial contracts and international partnerships.
The government is also supporting the sector through the Transport Research and Innovation Grants (TRIG), which help develop new technologies that can progress into real-world trials under the Freight Innovation Fund. A new national freight plan, to be published in 2026, will further outline the government’s commitment to building a modern, efficient, and sustainable freight and logistics system.
Sameer Savani, Managing Director for Transport at Connected Places Catapult, highlighted the sector’s potential, stating, “Innovation drives economic growth, and this fourth cohort of businesses will work with industry leaders to trial new ideas that improve freight across the UK.”
