Connecting UK Industry to the frontiers of science
The UK Industrial Liaison Office (ILO), part of the UK’s Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), links UK businesses with world-class research facilities, from particle accelerators to telescopes and lasers. By engaging with Big Science facilities such as CERN, ESO and SKAO, companies access international markets, cutting-edge technologies, and collaborative opportunities that drive innovation, build capabilities, and bridge the gap between research and real-world impact. Our mission is to help UK businesses win contracts, access innovation and compete globally.
Accelerating UK industry
Our mission
Our mission is to help UK businesses supply world-leading science facilities, accelerating innovation, strengthening skills, and boosting UK exports.
SKA-Low antennas. Credit SKAO/Max Alexander
Our objectives
Simplify procurement
Making it easier for UK companies to access and compete in complex international tender processes.
Support UK suppliers
Providing guidance, market insight and direct connections to facility experts to help businesses succeed.
Deliver ROI on public investment
Maximising the UK’s return on government funding through increased industrial participation and contract wins.
Strengthen UK innovation capability
Enabling industry to collaborate with cutting-edge facilities, driving technology development and global competitiveness.
Supporting the UK’s Industrial Strategy
The UK ILO contributes by helping UK businesses win contracts, access global research facilities and build the capability needed to drive national innovation and growth.
How we work
- Share opportunities: We provide early notice of tender opportunities from international Big Science facilities.
- Guide the process: Our experts help businesses navigate requirements and prepare strong submissions.
- Connect suppliers: We introduce UK companies to facility specialists and procurement teams, opening doors to new markets.
- Track and showcase UK impact: Working with Big Science not only brings economic returns but also drives innovation, builds capability, and boosts UK companies’ global competitiveness.
Credit: CERN
Our team
Our latest insights
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