RESEARCH
The Rail Innovation Group publishes research drawn from our members and wider community.
Our reports reflect the experience of small digital companies trying to win work in rail, and propose ways to make the sector more accessible to new ideas.
Our latest report:
July 2026
SMALL VOICES BIG IMPACT...
10 Years of Innovation: From Entry Barriers to Scaled Impact
SMALL VOICES BIG IMPACT...
10 Years of Innovation: From Entry Barriers to Scaled Impact
Published 2026
To mark our tenth anniversary, the Rail Innovation Group conducted a member-led review of how innovation in rail has changed between 2016 and 2026. It draws on a long-form survey of current and former members: the start-ups, SMEs and scale-ups working to bring new solutions into the sector.
The report finds clear cultural progress. Rail is more open to innovation than it was a decade ago. That shift has not yet been matched by structural change. Members describe a system that remains difficult to enter, and a persistent gap between successful trials and full adoption. The central message is simple. Rail is not short of innovation. It is short of pathways to adoption.
The report sets out where those barriers remain, the cross-sector capability the sector is already attracting, and five priority actions to help proven innovation scale across the network.
SMALL VOICES BIG TALENT
SKILLS BEYOND SCALE
Published 2025
Our latest report explores the critical role that small and micro enterprises play in shaping the future of the rail industry. The Rail Innovation Group conducted a comprehensive skills audit to assess the expertise within our membership, revealing how these businesses drive innovation in areas such as digital solutions, data analytics, customer experience, and operational efficiency. The report highlights the importance of these organisations not just as implementers but as visionaries, whose skills base and ingenuity is essential for the rail sector’s evolution.
Collaboration with these organisations will be key in addressing skill gaps, fostering innovation, and ensuring the long-term resilience and competitiveness of the rail industry.
The report provides an in-depth analysis of the diverse skills within our network, demonstrating how small and micro enterprises are pioneering solutions to some of the sector’s most pressing challenges. By showcasing their contributions to emerging technologies and digital innovation, the report serves as a guide for industry stakeholders looking to harness these capabilities and drive forward the future of rail.
SMALL VOICES EXPANDING HORIZONS...
REFLECTING UK START UPS INTERNATIONAL GROWTH
Published 2024
This report sheds light on the successes and challenges faced by our members as they venture into international markets. The report draws on research and firsthand accounts to highlight the strategic approaches, partnerships, and innovations that have enabled our members to overcome barriers and succeed internationally.
We look forward to engaging with government and policymakers to ensure that the needs and concerns of small tech and digital businesses are prioritised to create a supportive environment that enables our members to thrive.
The report offers an overview of the global digital and technology emerging markets and uses case studies and feedback to serve as a guide for small companies who aspire to expand internationally.
SMALL VOICES ASK FOR BIG CHANGES...
IMPROVING THE INNOVATION FUNDING ECOSYSTEM
Published 2023
Our members are micro, start-up, and SME businesses trying to enter the rail supply chain. Most rely on public funding streams to bring new approaches and products to market. This snapshot report draws on conversations with our members. Its purpose is to start a discussion between industry and government funders.
The report explores:
Why small businesses have not found the funding ecosystem easy to navigate.
Why funding doesn't necessarily result in new products and processes reaching the market as expected.
PARCELS AS PASSENGERS
AN EXPLORATION OF THE RAIL NETWORK'S ROLE IN THE SUSTAINABLE DELIVERY OF PARCELS.
Published 2021
An exploration of the potential for expanding the existing rail network's role in the faster and more sustainable delivery of small and medium sized parcels.
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Passenger trains can be part of the move to sustainable parcel delivery.
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The shift could support passenger train revenues.
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Parcels arriving into stations close to where people live and work means cargo bikes can be used for the last mile.
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Rail, road, and last-mile operators must work together to decarbonise.
Rail can provide long-distance routes much faster than the road network, complemented by e-cargo bikes at each end for first and last-mile delivery.
This is already being done in parts of the country, with potential to expand across the wider sector.