Celebrating a decade of impact with KQ Liverpool

Liverpool City Council is proud to mark the tenth anniversary of Knowledge Quarter Liverpool (KQ Liverpool) – a partnership that has played a major role in driving innovation, skills, investment and inclusive growth across the city since its formation in 2016.

Established with founding partners including the University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine and the NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, KQ Liverpool was created to harness the strength of the city’s knowledge economy and establish a world-class innovation district at the heart of Liverpool.

Over the past decade, KQ Liverpool has grown into one of the UK’s most successful innovation districts, home to more than 400 businesses, employing over 15,000 people, and welcoming more than 60,000 students every year. Its work has helped secure Liverpool’s position as one of Europe’s leading innovative cities, including achieving third place in the 2026 European Capital of Innovation Awards.

Alongside its physical and economic growth, KQ Liverpool has become known for its commitment to inclusive innovation, delivering programmes that support young people across the city region. Its KQ Futures initiative now reaches hundreds of pupils annually across primary, secondary and sixth form settings, introducing new skills and inspiring the next generation.

To celebrate its tenth year, KQ Liverpool will launch a “Ten for Ten” programme, featuring a series of major events and community activities. These include:

• A long‑distance fundraising challenge led by CEO Colin Sinclair, raising money for Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, The Brain Charity and Alfie’s Squad.
• The creation of a time capsule to be opened in 2040, capturing today’s innovation stories and future aspirations.
• An art competition with dot‑art Schools inviting pupils to explore the theme Life Under the Microscope.
• A community festival recognising the importance of neighbouring residential communities in shaping the district.

The anniversary year will also see KQ Liverpool strengthen its international engagement through the iCapital alumni network and unveil a refreshed brand identity and special-edition logo.

Cllr Liam Robinson, Leader of Liverpool City Council and Cabinet Member for Innovation at the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, said: “KQ Liverpool has made a significant contribution to our city over the last decade. Its work has helped attract investment, create jobs and build skills across the Liverpool City Region.

“We look forward to continuing our partnership as we work towards our shared ambition of a fairer, greener and more innovative future for all our communities.”