A key theme of the dialogue was the growing strategic importance of subnational diplomacy, encompassing states, cities, regions, and a wider ecosystem of actors, including universities, businesses and communities. Much of the most productive UK-US collaboration was seen to be taking place increasingly outside federal channels.
Why subnational matters
Subnational diplomacy was described as a stabilising force in times of national political volatility. When federal‑level relationships could weaken or stall, state‑to‑state, city‑to‑city and university‑to‑university ties often continue uninterrupted. This strengthens economic resilience, cultural ties and long‑term trust. Subnational engagement was also seen as a useful approach for the UK when dealing with a country as large and diverse as the US.
Emerging models
Potential examples included ‘innovation corridors’ between UK regions and US states, the modernisation of existing sister-city partnerships, and the creation of cross‑Atlantic incubators and apprenticeships linked to specific sectors such as renewables, health‑tech, advanced manufacturing and the creative industries. These models were seen as highly scalable, if adequately supported.
Barriers to overcome
Participants identified several obstacles:
- limited capacity within UK and US subnational institutions
- difficulties navigating visa and mobility systems
- duplication of effort
- uneven awareness of regional assets on both sides of the Atlantic
These barriers underscored the need for mapping tools, coordinated strategies and mechanisms to reduce administrative and bureaucratic friction.