Source · Select Committees · Business and Trade Committee
Recommendation 36
36
Paragraph: 149
On this basis, we share the concerns of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which called...
Conclusion
On this basis, we share the concerns of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which called into question the extent to which the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF) supports research-orientated small businesses. Given the scale of the funding attached to the ISCF, the fund should represent a realistic source of alternative funding for small businesses seeking to innovate. However, if the ISCF funding becomes ever more concentrated in certain parts of England, and the flow of support trends towards larger businesses, the ISCF will not be regarded as a viable alternative to traditional sources of growth finance.
Paragraph Reference:
149
Government Response
Not Addressed
HM Government
Not Addressed
61. The Government recognises the concerns raised by the Committee regarding the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF) and have agreed a robust action plan that will address the recommendations made by the Committee, the Public Accounts Committee, and National Audit Office. 62. As outlined in The Queen’s Speech 2021, levelling up opportunities across all parts of the UK is a key Government agenda. This is supported by UKRI through its mission to build a research and innovation (R&D) system in the UK, to which everyone can contribute