'We must get HS2 back on track': Bosses plea for help amid major review after long delays and rising costs

HS2 Ltd is asking small technology specialists to step in and help deliver Britain’s high-speed railway more efficiently and at lower cost.

Chief Executive Mark Wild is leading a full review of the project, which has faced delays and rising costs. As part of the reset, HS2 is opening the latest round of its Innovation Accelerator programme, run in partnership with the Connected Places Catapult.

The scheme invites start-ups and tech companies – even those outside the rail sector – to pitch ideas that could improve value for money, boost productivity on construction sites, and strengthen safety management.

Jon Kelly, HS2’s senior innovation manager, said: “Getting HS2 back on track is our number one priority and this is a unique opportunity for the country’s very best innovators to get on board and help us to achieve our goal.”

Since its launch in 2020, the Innovation Accelerator has supported 37 firms, secured 31 pilot projects, saved over £50 million, and helped create more than 580 jobs. Many of the participating companies have gone on to win other major contracts and raise significant investment.

Alan Peters, Rail Director at Connected Places Catapult, said: “Digital technology promises major gains for large rail projects such as HS2, and I am delighted to announce that the eighth iteration of this successful accelerator programme is now open.”

Applications opened today (23 September) and close on 31 October 2025. Six firms will be chosen to trial their innovations on the project.

More information is available at: cp.catapult.org.uk/opportunity/hs2-accelerator-8-0