Jacksonville and the U.K.: Partnering for Innovation, Growth, and Opportunity

Alicia Harrington

Program Manager

Last week, a delegation from Jacksonville, Florida, visited London to strengthen the city’s growing partnership with the U.K. The delegation included senior leaders from Jacksonville’s city government, financial institutions, major corporations, universities, and civic organizations, while U.K. participants represented leading banks, innovation networks, industry associations, and government offices. The week included networking receptions, roundtables and strategic forums, as well as visits to locations throughout the capital, including a tour of Parliament and sporting events. It was truly a week focused on building relationships across the Atlantic, sharing insights and experiences, and exploring opportunities for continued collaboration.

The week kicked off with a Columbus Day Reception at the Cavalry and Guards Club, a venue with a long-standing tradition of hosting distinguished guests, from military leaders to royalty such as Edward VIII and Prince William, as well as notable historical figures like Winston Churchill. Its stunning interior and storied history provided the perfect backdrop for Jacksonville delegates to meet U.K. representatives, setting the tone for a week of high-level conversations and collaboration. The reception allowed for both formal networking opportunities, as well as informal conversations, further establishing the kind of personal connections that develop successful long-term partnerships.

Over the next few days, a series of roundtables explored workforce development, emerging technologies, and infrastructure, highlighting ways both sides can learn from each other and further strengthen transatlantic ties. Discussions were framed by broader initiatives, including the UK–U.S. Technology Prosperity Deal, which emphasizes collaboration on AI, fintech, and innovation, providing a strategic catalyst for Jacksonville-U.K. partnerships.

A highlight of the week was a closing roundtable discussion at the National Liberal Club, hosted by L Marks and led by Lord Marks of Hale and Mayor Donna Deegan of Jacksonville and Dr Robyn Vidra, Vice Dean of King’s Business School. The forum brought together leaders from both sides of the Atlantic to discuss how public, private, and academic partners can work together to build connected innovation ecosystems. This forum also celebrated another embodiment of the transatlantic partnership through the launch of JAX Hub, designed to deepen collaboration and attract international startups.

The week wrapped up with sporting events that highlighted the U.K.–U.S. connection, including a Fulham FC match and an NFL International game with the Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium. Both teams are owned by Shahid “Shad” Khan, whose leadership bridges the two countries through sports, business, and civic engagement. These events further reinforced the personal, cultural, and economic ties that help sustain the U.K.–Jacksonville relationship.

Overall, the visit underscored the strength and potential of the partnership between Jacksonville and the U.K., showing how collaboration across business, government, and academia can drive innovation, create new opportunities, and deliver lasting impact on both sides of the Atlantic.