UK-Shared Prosperity Fund Programme Reflections

As the final two UK‑Shared Prosperity Fund projects delivered by the University of Exeter in Cornwall draw to a close at the end of March, we are celebrating the achievements and legacy of both The Future is Green (TFiG) and Digital Futures Cornwall.

The Future is Green

The Future is Green project developed a circular, sustainability-focused business accelerator, turning research in renewable energy, circular economy, and sustainability into rapid, employer-focused skills development. The project delivered intensive six-week programmes in priority sectors such as circular innovation, clean energy, and sustainable construction. Co-designed with regional stakeholders, these programmes targeted real green skills gaps, supporting 115 businesses and 250 individuals through thirteen legacy-focused knowledge exchange activities. Its innovative, place-based approach blends research-informed teaching, industry expertise, and flexible delivery formats, enabling professionals, career-changers, and organisations to quickly access cutting-edge sustainability knowledge. This model translates university research into practical workforce capability at a regional scale. As the project draws to a final end this month, the University of Exeter is working with its Executive Education team to commercialise the six-week course model. This will allow the programmes to continue beyond grant funding, creating a scalable professional education offer that builds green capabilities and embeds lasting impact within a sustainable delivery framework.

Digital Futures Cornwall

Similarly, Digital Futures Cornwall focused on strengthening digital capability and innovation across Cornwall. Partners worked together to support local businesses and communities in building the skills needed for an increasingly digital economy, with further information and resources remaining available online. A highlight of the University’s contribution during the project’s final year was the Cornwall AI Summit held at the Eden Project last autumn. This attracted around 120 participants for an engaging and informative day of insights, discussion and practical exploration of emerging technologies. Digital Futures Cornwall leaves behind a valuable foundation of skills, connections and momentum for the region’s ongoing digital growth.

Together, these projects showcase the impact of collaborative, place‑based investment in skills and innovation, leaving Cornwall better equipped for a greener and more digitally enabled future.