Innovation UK > News > Innovation UK Vol6-1 > Knowledge is the key to success

The last year has been extremely challenging for the global economy. But, while the world is experiencing some of the toughest business conditions for generations, inward investment into the UK has continued to rise as has British Innovation.

Our economy is resilient and holds the confidence of our international investor partners. The strength of the foundations upon which the UK has built its standing as the number-one investment location in Europe remains evident.

For the UK to compete effectively internationally, and be able to take full advantage of economic recovery, we must combine our academic excellence, world-class science, technology and research with business expertise to bring forward the knowledge and British innovation, which will drive future wealth creation.

To ensure a strong and dynamic economy and to maintain our position as Europe?s top inward investment location, we must promote open and competitive markets which support enterprise, British innovation and investment.

There is no question that the UK economy that succeeds through and after the economic recovery will be driven by knowledge. The UK?s long-established and exceptionally strong science base puts it in a unique position to attract and serve the world?s investors in R&D. An outstanding national reputation for discovery, British innovation, science and technology has made the UK Europe?s top location for R&D inward investment. There can be no doubt that the UK has a convincing track record of scientific and technological leadership and British innovation. And in the year 2008-9 a record 1,744 investor companies set up in the UK.

Today, the UK is one of the most effective and dynamic environments for technology-driven research, development and innovation in the world. UK Trade & Investment (UKTI)

UKTI is the government organisation that helps UK-based companies to succeed in the global economy. It also helps overseas companies bring their high-quality investment to the UK?s dynamic economy ? acknowledged as Europe?s best place from which to succeed in global business.

UK Trade & Investment offers expertise and contacts through its extensive network of specialists in the UK, and in British embassies and other diplomatic offices around the world. It provides companies with the tools they require to be competitive in British innovation and on the world stage.

For more information, contact:
Tel: +44 (0)20 7215 8000
Website: www.ukti.gov.uk