Data analytics and artificial intelligence applications in West Yorkshire

The UK has a strong and well-developed data analytics and artificial intelligence (AI) sector. With more than 3,000 early-stage AI companies, it is one of the best places in the world to live, work and develop AI. There are 50,000 people employed in AI in the UK, contributing an estimated £3.7 billion gross value added (GVA) to the UK economy.

The UK's AI market is currently valued at over £18 billion. It is estimated to grow significantly during the next few years and to add over £775 million to the UK economy by 2035.

Sector and market opportunity

West Yorkshire offers an opportunity for data analytics and AI companies to establish, scale up and thrive as part of an established and growing digital ecosystem.

West Yorkshire has 9,700 digital and tech businesses across the region, employing over 50,000 people. The region boasts an ecosystem alive with co-working spaces, accelerators, events, meetups and support schemes.

In the region, you will join a thriving data cluster and become part of a dynamic community of businesses innovating and providing solutions in data analytics and AI applications. From early-stage startups to large organisations, the region is ready to support your business in supplying data analytics technologies and AI applications to satisfy local and international demand.

Growth prospects

Seize the opportunities in data analytics and AI applications and discover the key advantages of a unique cluster primed and ready to support your business.

Collaborate with the region’s pioneering innovators

Connect with leading experts such as Open Innovations and Data Mill North.

Gain direct access to a highly skilled talent pool

The region’s 7 universities offer course in relevant AI and data science subjects.

Capitalise on business support

From organisations including West Yorkshire Combined Authority and the Connected Places Catapult, with access to a range of incubator space.

Network

Participate in over 80 digital meetups taking place regularly in the region.

Navigate a well-connected central location

West Yorkshire’s central location offers close proximity to two international airports alongside road and rail links creating a well-connected platform for global businesses.

Take advantage of the region’s expertise

Home to world-leading centres of excellence including the Leeds Institute for Data Analytics (LIDA) and the Centre for Immersive Technologies.

Enjoy competitive salary costs

With salaries up to 50% lower than France, Germany, Ireland and the US, and competitive salaries relative to other UK locations.

Location and connectivity

West Yorkshire is a prime location with strong connectivity, making it an ideal hub for data, AI, and business growth. Join a strategically located, well-connected ecosystem that links domestic and global enterprises.

Leeds Bradford Airport is Yorkshire’s largest airport with flights serving global business and leisure destinations. The region is also located near Manchester Airport offering flights to national and international destinations.

The M62, M1 and A1(M) motorways converge in the region, connecting the east and west coasts of Northern England, London, Newcastle and Edinburgh.

West Yorkshire has excellent road and rail freight distribution networks to the rest of Europe.

Leeds Railway Station is the third busiest British station outside of London, with hourly services to London, with a travel time of 2 hours.

Local talent and skills

West Yorkshire offers businesses access to a highly skilled workforce with over 34,000 graduates annually.

The region has a talent pool with 50,000 people employed in digital and tech businesses in the region with a 17% increase in the last 12 months.

Multi-lingual workforce with over 170 languages spoken - a huge pool of native multi-linguists for businesses that rely on fluent communication for an international competitive edge.

Over 11,000 students currently studying a related subject including data science, machine learning, AI, immersive technologies, and computing science.

The University of Bradford has one of the largest number of AI and Data Analytics postgraduate students in the UK.

Research and expertise

Tap into world-leading expertise and innovation by accessing pioneering data innovations and national data research.

Key assets to find opportunities for connection and collaboration include the:

• Leeds Institute for Data Analytics (LIDA)
• Centre for Immersive Technologies
• Centre for Financial Technology and Innovation (CFTI)

Further collaborations are available through:

• AI Tech UK
• Space Hub Yorkshire
• Propel@YH
• Open Innovations
• Connected Places Catapult
• Data Mill North
• NHS General Practice Data for Planning and Research (GPDPR)

Local and national government support

National strategies in data, AI and innovation highlight opportunities for the future by setting out frameworks for how the UK will invest in innovations, data and AI. The UK is committed to harnessing its strengths in data and AI by supporting national strategies that underpin and support the transition to an AI-enabled economy.

Locally, West Yorkshire Combined Authority provides tailored support, funding, and initiatives to help businesses thrive. This includes finding a suitable premises, recruiting top talent and navigating the market effectively.