The Future Towns Innovation Hub (FTIH) is a University of Southampton-led centre dedicated to creating happier, healthier and more prosperous places.
Based at the Engineering Centre on Southampton Science Park, we offer both physical collaboration spaces within the building and this online collaboration platform. Together, these environments bring people, expertise and ideas together to accelerate place-based innovation.
As part of one of the UK’s leading research-intensive universities, FTIH connects world-class academic insight with real-world challenges faced by communities, local authorities and industry partners. Our mission is simple: to turn pioneering research into practical solutions that help places thrive.
What we do
Research
Bringing research to the real-world
Drawing on the University’s strengths in engineering, environmental sciences, sustainability and civic engagement, FTIH can help you turn research into practical solutions. Our facilities include specialist laboratories for water and river studies, energy systems, advanced testing and uncrewed aerial systems.
Collaboration
A shared space for collaboration
Our open-plan Collaboration Zone offers a flexible, creative environment for workshops, events and project co-design. Organisations can connect, test ideas and work with researchers to create solutions rooted in evidence and community need, both in the building and on this online platform.
Support
A structured innovation journey
We make innovation accessible. Using proven frameworks and guided facilitation, we help partners identify challenges, shape ideas, evaluate opportunities and move projects from concept to deployment.
Partnerships
Developing long-lasting partnerships
FTIH links businesses, councils, charities and residents with the University’s expertise. Whether you need specialist knowledge, independent evaluation or experimental facilities, we help build the right connections for your project.
Our five focus areas
FTIH focuses on the major challenges shaping the towns of today and tomorrow, including:
Sustainable development
Exploring regenerative practices, renewable energy, blue-green infrastructure and the circular economy.
Smart mobility
Exploring innovations in transportation, including autonomous vehicles, electric vehicles, smart public transport and micro-mobility.
Digital connectedness
Exploring data analytics, AI, IoT and smart tech to improve public services, efficiency and civic engagement.
Community wellbeing and inclusivity
Exploring social equity, quality healthcare, education, and vibrant cultural and recreational vitality.
Place-based innovation and entrepreneurship
Supporting local startups with funding and resources, leveraging regional assets and fostering community collaboration.
How we work with you
Starting with the challenges that matter most to you or your community, Love Your Place helps teams explore possibilities, co-design solutions and test them in real-world settings. Our role is to guide, support and de-risk the innovation process, making your solutions more achievable and impactful.
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- Identify challenges through our digital platform or direct engagement.
- Co-design solutions using collaborative workshops and innovation events.
- Connect with researchers and partners across disciplines and sectors.
- Test, evaluate and refine ideas using our facilities and expertise.
- Translate solutions into practice through pilot projects and applied research.
Our role is to guide, support and de-risk the process — making innovation more achievable and impactful.
For more information, contact: