Mission & Principles
Our Mission
The Middle Tech Coalition is the policy voice of ‘middle tech’ in the UK.
We represent global digital companies that are distinct from the largest firms.
The Coalition was established in 2021, then known as the Mid-Size Platform Group.
Together, our members are committed to positive online experiences and believe innovation drives economic growth and opportunity. We aim to inform the development of tech policy that creates and maintains a thriving, diverse online world.
Our Principles
The Coalition’s principles for effective tech policymaking are:
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Effective regulation must account for the differences in resources, business models, governance systems, and risk profiles of the firms it targets. Rather than a “one size fits all” approach, the diversity of online businesses and the rapid development of new technologies means that new regulation should be proportionate, principles-based and tech-neutral.
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Clear, stable regulatory frameworks support business planning and promote investment. Regulators and government should engage with in-scope services early, avoid taking an overly iterative approach to rulemaking, and produce clear and concise guidance.
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Middle tech companies bring unique expertise and perspectives, especially on the barriers to scaling tech companies in the UK. Policymakers and regulators should ensure they consult regularly with middle tech companies, and recognise our more limited resources for engagement by consulting collective voices like the Middle Tech Coalition.
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Smart alignment with global regulations, where appropriate, reduces compliance burdens and helps UK businesses of all sizes to grow internationally. It also ensures we all benefit from proven best practices. Where a more proportionate or more effective approach is available to UK regulators, they should pursue this to secure the best possible outcomes for UK businesses and consumers.
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Innovation comes from every layer of the ecosystem. It is essential that new regulation and policy create a level playing field. This encourages growth and investment across the board, from the largest to the smallest firms. We support policies that empower middle tech to invest, partner, scale, and innovate here in the UK.