18 May 2026: Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK), the industry association for the transport technology sector, has welcomed the publication of the National Audit Office’s report into innovation funding at the Department for Transport (DfT), particularly its recognition of the need for greater support to help innovation move beyond trials and pilots into commercial deployment.

Published on Monday 18 May, the NAO report examines whether DfT’s approach to innovation funding in transport is delivering value for money, and sets out recommendations to improve how the Department approaches innovation funding.

Commenting on the report, Max Sugarman, Chief Executive of ITS UK, said: “It is positive to see many of the issues raised by ITS UK members, at our the workshop with the NAO, highlighted within today’s report. In particular, Recommendation 14 contains a number of concerns raised by industry, including around a culture of risk aversion, procurement processes and intellectual property rights.

“One issue that we particularly hear members speak about is the challenge of how we move beyond trials and pilots to commercial deployment. Pilots and trials are critical – they help transport authorities test new solutions and can give technology suppliers that first step into the market.  However, members often tell us of the difficulties they face moving beyond trials, and that they often feel there is less support as they look to commercialise their products and services.

“This is a key issue if we are to ensure the transport sector is a dynamic and open environment for innovation, and an industry where companies can scale up and grow. We hope that the NAO’s report provides a much-needed call to action for the sector.”

Note to editors

1. Read the NAO Report on DfT Innovation Funding.
2. About ITS UK: Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK) is the voice of the transport technology industry, a sector that provides £3.2bn in economic value, supports 45,000 jobs and provides £500mn in tax revenue. ITS UK provides a national platform to support the roll out of technology for a cleaner, safer and more effective transport network, both at home and abroad. We support our 200+ members – from both the private and public sector, and covering all sizes and disciplines – through advocacy to policymakers, connecting people and organisations, promoting the industry overseas and supporting innovation across the intelligent transport ecosystem. www.its-uk.org