Mini IGT Welcomes Nanotechnologies Strategy

The Secretariat of the Nanotechnology Mini-Innovation and Growth Team (Mini-IGT) has welcomed the UK Government’s publication on Nanotechnology strategy – Small Technologies, Great Opportunities (March 2010). The strategy follows a report* submitted to Government in January by the Nanotechnology Mini-IGT, detailing recommendations for the further success of nanotechnology in the UK. This considered where the UK sits in

terms of investment in comparison with competitors and reviewed the UK’s capability to exploit nanotechnologies given the organisations and funding bodies currently in place. A number of recommendations in the areas of policy and regulation, funding, skills and engagement were made and the Secretariat of the Nanotechnology Mini-IGT is pleased to note that the Government has taken account of these recommendations in the UK Strategy.

Responses to the report included proposed establishment of the Nanotechnology Leadership Group to be chaired by a BIS Minister and continuation of the inter KTN Nanotechnology Mini-IGT, through the formation of a Nanotechnology Special Interest Group that will ensure continued industrial engagement through the implementation process.

The inter KTN Group will work alongside Government Departments and Agencies on the implementation of the UK Nanotechnologies Strategy via various funding mechanisms to ensure safe and responsible nanotechnology enabled products are being exploited to underpin economic growth in the UK.

*Nanotechnology: a UK Industry View provided a strategic approach in support of the commercialisation of nanotechnology based products in the UK.