Innovation is a crucial driver of economic growth, with countries that prioritise it experiencing higher levels of prosperity. While Britain has a strong history of innovation, the country has struggled to maintain its global standing due to a lack of investment.
The UK’s innovation performance is lagging behind other countries, ranking 12th in the Global Innovation Index. Despite having world-class universities and research institutions, the commercialisation of their research is subpar.
The government’s role in fostering innovation is paramount. Public funding for research and development (R&D) can stimulate private investment, leading to a ‘crowding in’ effect. Yet, the UK invests only 1.7% of its GDP in R&D, below the OECD average of 2.4%.
The UK also faces a ‘scale-up’ problem, with many start-ups failing to grow into larger businesses. This issue is partly due to a lack of long-term investment and a risk-averse culture.
Addressing these challenges requires a holistic approach. The government must increase R&D spending, promote the commercialisation of research, and foster a culture of risk-taking. It should also provide support for businesses to scale up and create a favourable environment for long-term investment.
By doing so, the UK can reclaim its position as a global leader in innovation, paving the way for sustained economic growth and prosperity.
Go to source article: http://quarterly.demos.co.uk/article/issue-2/innovation-and-growth/