Cambridge has been crowned the most innovation-intensive city in the UK, according to a new global report by Dealroom. The historic city, known for its academic excellence, now leads the country in innovation relative to its size — and ranks fourth globally, behind only San Francisco, Boston, and New York.
The 2024 Global Tech Ecosystem Index by Dealroom analyses start-up performance across 288 cities in 69 countries. It measures innovation intensity based on factors such as research output, university connections, and start-up activity per capita. Cambridge emerged as a clear leader, outperforming much larger cities thanks to its concentrated ecosystem of cutting-edge science and ambitious entrepreneurship.
Global Recognition for a Local Powerhouse
Diarmuid O’Brien, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Innovation at the University of Cambridge, credited the city’s success to deliberate investment in talent and infrastructure. “It’s no accident that we punch above our weight,” he said. “Cambridge continues to translate transformative science into real-world impact.”
The city’s tech scene appears unfazed by wider economic challenges. While global venture capital slowed in 2024, Cambridge saw its investment levels double — a striking indicator of growing confidence in its deep tech sector.
Gerard Grech, Head of Founders at the University, added: “Cambridge is proof of what happens when world-class research meets relentless ambition. What sets us apart is not just our breakthroughs in science, but our ability to turn those ideas into successful, scalable companies.”
Cambridge’s innovation ecosystem benefits from a steady stream of spinouts, experienced founders, and close collaboration between academia and industry. With continued momentum, the city is well-positioned to remain a global leader in science and technology.
As Cambridge celebrates this international recognition, the message is clear: size isn’t everything — especially when your ideas change the world.
