Leaders from government, academia and community organisations came together at Stormont today for Policy, Place and Changemakers, a full‑day showcase of evidence and innovation emerging from the UKRI‑funded Local Policy Innovation Partnership (LPIP) programme. Hosted by EPIC Futures NI and Ulster University, the event explored how AI‑driven labour market evidence, behavioural insights and place‑based research can strengthen policymaking. Partners from across the UK shared learning on inclusive economies, culture, heritage, and place identities, and community‑led evidence, demonstrating the value of collaboration across regions.
The event reflected a growing commitment across sectors to work collectively, share knowledge, and ensure policy decisions are grounded in the lived realities of people and places. EPIC Futures NI, a £4.8m UKRI‑funded partnership led by Ulster University, continues to bring government, academic, and community partners together to address complex labour‑market challenges and support fair, inclusive employment across Northern Ireland.