Northamptonshire is to benefit from a £1 billion investment in artificial intelligence, with the University of Northampton urging local businesses to prepare for the opportunities ahead.
The funding comes as part of a £31 billion commitment by major US firms to develop AI, quantum computing and other advanced technologies. UK-based company AI Pathfinder will deliver the Northamptonshire investment, with operations at its new site expected to begin in 2025.
Anne-Marie Kilday, vice chancellor at the University of Northampton, described the deal as a “transformational moment” for the county.
“This investment will be one of the largest Northamptonshire has ever seen and we need to be ready to capture and harness the money and innovation coming into the region,” she said. “There is no reason Northamptonshire cannot be at the forefront of the AI and quantum computing revolutions.”
The government confirmed the package yesterday (17 September) as part of its Tech Prosperity Deal, which aims to accelerate growth in AI, clean energy and advanced computing while creating skilled jobs in both the UK and US.
The University of Northampton is already developing talent for the sector through its Artificial Intelligence and Data Science degree, while embedding AI across the wider curriculum. Current projects include healthcare, education and therapy applications.
Through its Digital and Data Strategy, the university is also exploring automation to free up staff for high-value tasks, and is encouraging businesses to engage with its research and knowledge exchange programmes.
