Nestled in the heart of Buckinghamshire, just off the M1 the newly designated city of Milton Keynes might not be the first place that springs to mind when considering UK's tech hubs. Famous for its grid system, modernist architecture, roundabouts, and concrete cows, this vibrant city has emerged as a burgeoning centre of technological innovation, making it a great home for Ethiqs Legal.
Let's delve deeper into why Milton Keynes has earned its place on the tech map.
An Emergent Tech Powerhouse
Over the past decade, Milton Keynes has been quietly establishing itself as a hub for innovation. This has been largely due to concerted efforts by local government and businesses to attract tech enterprises, foster start-ups, and encourage tech-focused academic programs.
This town's commitment to innovation is perhaps best reflected in its high-ranking position according to the Open Data Institute’s Tech Innovation Index and support from the UK Parliament.
Key Factors Driving the Tech Boom in Milton Keynes
Connectivity and Location
Milton Keynes' central location is a strategic advantage. It's positioned within the Oxford-Cambridge Arc, an area famed for its educational institutions, high-tech businesses, and ambitious tech projects. The excellent transport links, proximity to London, Birmingham, and major airports, make it an attractive base for global tech firms and start-ups. A proposed future rail link between Oxford and Cambridge which will pass through nearby Bletchley will further cement Milton Keynes as an ideal location for business.
Pioneering Smart City Initiatives
Described as ‘experimental and progressive’, Milton Keynes has become synonymous with smart city and sustainable transport initiatives which further bolsters its reputation as a tech-centric city. The city has also become known for its autonomous delivery Starship Robots, roaming the city’s pavements, and serving residents – a clear sign of embracing the future. We still are very impressed at their ability to navigate around the older part of the Milton Keynes area such as Woburn Sands and Milton Keynes village
Talent and Education
Milton Keynes has long been renowned for the presence of the Open University which has made higher education accessible for thousands all over the world. However, in the last few years, Milton Keynes Council and Cranfield University have set a strategic focus on supporting business growth with the opening and development of MK:U, Cranfield’s undergraduate offering.
MK:U promotes age diversity by providing a variety of courses aimed at upskilling individuals from all age groups. This inclusive approach is particularly important in addressing the digital skills gap prevalent in today's workforce.
The courses offered encompass a broad range of skills, from technical and creative disciplines to commercial competencies. Ethiqs Legal has been delighted to offer Data Protection training to business students to help in their education so they can contribute to the multifaceted requirements of the modern business world.
Business Support and Infrastructure
Milton Keynes has established a reputation as a conducive hub for businesses, particularly tech start-ups. The city boasts several support groups that assist new and existing businesses in their growth trajectory. These include Protospace whose collaboration with Milton Keynes Council is helping develop a tech strategy in the city, Collaborate MK, Femtechprenuer, Made in MK and Business Network International (BNI). Each dedicated to providing networking and educational opportunities. Ethiqs Legal founders Vicky and Gerhard have been strong supporters of the local business scene, with Vicky giving talks and providing advice which has helped entrepreneurs navigate their legal obligations.
Meeting pandemic challenges
The Covid-19 pandemic necessitated a shift to online meetings, but this did not deter these organisations from their commitment to continuing to connect businesses with each other. Despite the challenges, they adapted effectively, ensuring that start-ups and established businesses alike could continue to network and learn from each other in a virtual setting.
The return to face-to-face meetings, however, is most definitely welcome! Nothing beats meeting people in real life, in real places. There are several great venues in Milton Keynes such as Hotel de la Tour, a fabulous addition to the skyline with breathtaking panoramic views from its fourteenth-floor bar and restaurant. Santander has also just opened its new office, including Unity Place, a collaboration space, bookable ‘town hall’ spaces for the community and even an ‘urban market’ providing food and drink. Tech company, Aiimi Ltd also provides the perfect space for meet-ups of like minds when it comes to all things 'innovation'
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Milton Keynes' tech scene shows no signs of slowing down.
The two-day 'All Flows' Creative, Design, and Tech Festival’ held in May, is a testament to the vibrant tech scene in Milton Keynes. The event brought together inspiring speakers from various disciplines, providing a platform for knowledge sharing and collaboration. What’s more, the recently announced ‘MK Smart Robotics Competition’, set to take place in September 2023 underscores the fact that Milton Keynes is indeed a key player on the tech map. Its combination of networking initiatives, educational opportunities, and industry events creates an environment that fosters innovation and growth in the tech sector.
With its strategic location, commitment to innovation, growing talent pool, and supportive business environment, Milton Keynes has undeniably carved out a niche for itself in the UK's tech environment. Watch this space, because the city dubbed as the "middle of everywhere" is set to continue its journey towards becoming the tech heart of the UK.
Ethiqs Legal is proud to be a part of the Milton Keynes tech community and provide legal and data protection help, advice, and support for businesses at all stages of their growth.