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Join the freight
innovation cluster

A leading Initiative in the Department for transport’s Freight Innovation Fund programme, brought to you by Connected Places Catapult

Join the Freight Innovation Cluster

The freight Innovation cluster (FIC) Is a robust network of members operating in the freight Industry, which regularly engage and work collaboratively towards joint opportunities.

With more than 180 organisations, encompassing Industry, academia, local authorities and larger players, the freight Innovation cluster is far from being only a community. It presents itself as a vibrant environment where member organisations connect, showcase their challenges, seek solutions through meaningful commercial partnerships, as well as co-design joint processes and ventures.

A collage showing a cargo ship, an airplane, trucks, and containers, depicting various modes of transportation and logistics.

A dotted world map with icons of a plane, train, and ship connected by curved lines, representing global travel or transportation.

What is an innovation cluster?

An Innovation cluster often refers to a group of organisations geographically located in the same area, sharing the same Industry focus, and interacting in a collaborative, yet competitive, way.

The Freight Innovation cluster revolutionises the way clusters operate. Its strategic focus on the governments freight strategy and commercialisation, rather than being a limitation, represents an opportunity and enables it to act as a catalyst, convening the freight sector and reducing the barriers to innovation. FIC’s goal is to create a solid ecosystem of places and solutions, that, powered by togetherness and collaborative Innovation, can become the backbone of the UK freight Industry.

The freight Innovation Cluster is a catalyst for:

Engagement

FIC is a suitable environment for members network, establish compatible professional relationships, share challenges, and seek ad-hoc support.

Upskilling

Relationship building, and innovation showcasing brings knowledge into the cluster. Members can learn from each other and mutually upskill, leading to a win-win scenario.

Matchmaking

It can happen with the help of the Innovation cluster programme manager who facilitates new dialogues. Matchmaking can also happen organically and sustainably.

Delivery of Tangibles

Support members with the delivery of impactful tangibles, including advancement of innovative products, growth in capital, support to internationalisation, and exporting. Finally, economic development more widely.

The Freight Innovation Cluster is committed to raising awareness around the breadth of opportunities this industry offers. By changing the narrative around the sector, FIC hopes to more attractive to professionals of all ages, and more accessible across all societal sects. Finally, FIC encourages equity, diversity, and inclusion within the industry.

Download the cluster TOR here