The UK government has allocated £1.2 million in funding to small businesses for projects aimed at improving transport links in rural areas.

Through the Rural Transport Accelerator Fund, eight small businesses have each been awarded £150,000 to develop digital tools and other innovations that will enhance connectivity for rural communities. By collaborating with local authorities, these projects will help support rural jobs, community wellbeing, and local economies, with trials set to begin in locations ranging from Norfolk to Scotland.

Among the successful projects are digital solutions tailored to the unique needs of rural residents. For example, You.Smart.Thing will trial a demand-responsive tool in Warwickshire to help individuals without access to a car find shared or community transport options. Another project, led by UrbanTide, will map patient journeys to NHS hospitals in Fife, helping healthcare providers address transport gaps for those needing hospital services. Other initiatives will focus on predictive tools for rural transport demand and creating safer cycling routes using recycled car tyres.

Future of Roads Minister Lilian Greenwood emphasised the distinct transport challenges faced by rural residents, noting that these projects will improve access to essential services, such as grocery shopping and hospital appointments.