Ofcom’s 2025 consultation on releasing mmWave spectrum marks a pivotal step in the UK’s digital future. Unlocking the 26 GHz and 40 GHz bands will enable ultra-fast, high-capacity 5G, laying foundations for 6G. From smart cities and stadiums to transport hubs, mmWave can transform connectivity. But success depends on real demand and strong business cases—without them, small-cell investment will stall.

The UK Government’s £9.5M Digital Inclusion Innovation Fund supports councils, charities, and community groups to tackle digital exclusion. Grants fund projects like tech skills workshops, device donation schemes, and innovative local solutions. By improving access to devices, digital skills, and online services, the fund helps communities save money, boost employability, and reduce inequality while promoting scalable, evidence-based initiatives for lasting social impact.

The Internet of Things (IoT) has matured from a niche concept to a core enabler of digital infrastructure. As investor interest grows, the market remains fragmented—populated by under-scale and niche providers. With emerging tech like edge-based AI and increasing regulatory demands, the next wave of growth will favour full-stack, scalable platforms. This article explores how investors can capitalise on consolidation opportunities in this evolving landscape.

The June 2025 Spending Review outlines key digital and infrastructure priorities, including £1.9bn for gigabit broadband rollout, £500m to boost public sector productivity, and investment in AI, digital health, and skills. While direct local funding is limited, the review signals strong national backing for digital transformation. Councils should align strategies to seize future funding and innovation opportunities.

Emran Mian has been appointed Permanent Secretary at DSIT, succeeding Sarah Munby. His prior role as Director General for Digital Technologies and Telecoms ensures continuity in AI, telecoms, fibre, and compute. This signals strong government commitment to digital infrastructure and presents opportunities for local councils to align with central strategy.

The UK’s Industrial Strategy focuses on AI, semiconductors, telecoms, cloud, and data infrastructure to drive national competitiveness. Fibre, 5G, and data centres are key to economic security and industrial leadership. Local Authorities can align regional strategies with national priorities, while Investors and Operators are encouraged to scale investments. Intelligens Consulting helps with digital strategy alignment, infrastructure planning, and securing funding.

Even a 1% productivity boost across UK SMEs could unlock £94 billion over five years. Digital tools—like AI, automation, and advanced connectivity—are key to driving growth, efficiency, and resilience. Local authorities and enterprise agencies can lead this transformation by delivering tailored support that helps SMEs adopt and scale the right technologies. Now is the time to act and unlock the digital dividend for local economies.

As the public sector embraces digital services, automation, and AI, fibre and 5G infrastructure have become vital indicators of a region’s readiness. Our State of the UK’s Connectivity Landscape (2025) report highlights a growing digital divide—but also clear opportunities. Connectivity is just the starting point. True transformation requires vision, strategy, and leadership. The most successful regions aren’t waiting. It’s your move.

500 character ChatGPT said: The UK Government’s AI Growth Zones (AIGZ) initiative aims to accelerate AI infrastructure across the country by supporting the development of data centres and innovation clusters outside London and the South East. AIGZs will unlock investment, create high-quality jobs, and drive regional growth. Intelligens Consulting can help design proposals, assess sites, and build partnerships to secure funding and deliver impactful AI projects.

At Connected North 2025, I moderated a panel on how councils are using AI—not in theory, but in practice. Councils are no longer waiting on the sidelines; AI is delivering real results today. From chatbots to automated triage in social care, local authorities are building affordable, effective tools in-house. But AI is only as good as the data—and data needs infrastructure. That’s why digital connectivity is now essential for public sector innovation.

AI data centres are booming—local councils must act now! Our 3-point plan helps them secure investment, power & sustainability

UK uses AI and satellite imagery to speed up planning approvals, enhance MOT inspections, and lead in AI-driven public service improvements.

Recently, I have engaged in extensive discussions with numerous local authority Chief Executives and senior leaders, and I have gained...