London is a magnet for investment. It consistently tops the European charts for foreign direct investment, venture capital and real estate investment[119].
But our growth ambitions need investment on a new scale – and that means we need to take a new approach.
Why it matters
London needs to lead the world in partnering with private capital to build homes and infrastructure. We need to dramatically increase the capital available to innovative companies. And we need the world’s most exciting businesses to keep choosing London.
The reforms to UK capital markets and pension funds are a powerful tailwind. London must respond by creating the right opportunities for institutional investment.
London’s is one of the world’s favourite cities for visitors, students, events, talent and investors.
But competition is fierce. London’s many advocates must unite to tell our story with confidence and credibility. London’s story is about facts and figures. But it is also about our values: a city that is culturally diverse and welcoming.
10-year plan
Investment:
- Dramatically boost capital investment into innovative companies.
- Get our Local Government Pension Scheme pools investing in innovation and growth in London.
- Continue to champion UK capital markets reform.
- Extend our inward investment infrastructure to institutional investors in innovation.
- Focus London’s powerful inward investment machine on priority sectors and places.
- Attract significant institutional capital for net zero infrastructure and real estate.
- Drive onward investment from London to other parts of the UK, in partnership with nations and regions.
Promotion:
- Unite Team London to tell London’s story to the world.
- Develop a sustainable, long-term solution to fund London’s experience economy sector.
- Encourage visitors to use London as a gateway to tourism across the UK.
See the plan in action
Delivery of the London Growth Plan is underway. To see what has been achieved across all five action areas, read our latest progress report. To see what is coming next, take a look at our current action plan.
Learn more about the key actions
Inclusive talent strategy
Explore our plan to unlock the potential of London’s skilled workforce and drive the economy.
Backing our businesses
Discover how we will continue to support London businesses from high streets to startups.
Housing and infrastructure
Understand London’s priorities for building new homes and infrastructure to boost growth.
Local places
Learn how London will create more local places where businesses can grow and support their communities.
Sources:
119. fDi Markets from the Financial Times Ltd; Dealroom.co; JLL data supplied for Opportunity London 2024. Why invest in London? (Accessed 27 January 2025).