Technology

Posted on August 20, 2019 by staff

UK councils to receive £7.5m support for public sector tech

Technology

The UK government has announced a £7.5m competition for local councils hoping to improve public services new technology.

Through the Local Digital Fund, councils can now look to secure funding for projects designed to improve the quality of public services through innovative uses of tech.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) said grants of up to £350,000 will be invested, and should be shared by councils working in partnership to study how technology can help in providing better public services.

Councils hoping to participate in the funding can apply from today, with entries closing on the 16 September.

“Digital technology is transforming our lives,” said Minister for Local Government, Luke Hall MP.

“From smart tech at home to apps on our phones, it’s helping us to stay connected and making things easier.

“Councils are on the front line of exploring how we can harness technology to improve services while saving taxpayers’ money.

“Today we’re opening up the next round of applications for the Local Digital Fund. I would encourage all councils with innovative ideas that focus on residents’ needs to apply.”

Last year, the UK government awarded grants of up to £100,000 to sixteen projects, and saw 57 councils working together on new digital services and modernised technology.