The UK has secured £150bn of new investment from American firms as part of Donald Trump’s second state visit, in what ministers are calling a landmark boost for jobs and growth.

The government said the pledges would create 7,600 “high-quality” jobs across the country, with prime minister Sir Keir Starmer hailing the package as evidence of Britain’s global appeal.

Speaking ahead of talks with Trump at Chequers, Starmer said: “When we back British brilliance, champion our world-class industries, and forge deeper global alliances — especially with friends like the US — we help shape the future for generations to come. These investments are a testament to Britain’s economic strength and a bold signal that our country is open, ambitious and ready to lead.”

The biggest commitment comes from asset manager Blackstone, which will pour £90bn into developing UK data centres, on top of £10bn already announced. Other pledges include £3.9bn from logistics giant Prologis and £1.5bn from software company Palantir.

The investment surge coincides with plans for a new “tech prosperity deal” between London and Washington, expected to be signed later this week. The deal will cover collaboration in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and nuclear power, and builds on earlier announcements of multibillion-pound UK projects by Microsoft, Salesforce and Nvidia.

Tech leaders including Apple’s Tim Cook and OpenAI’s Sam Altman attended Trump’s state banquet at Windsor Castle, underlining the significance of the relationship for the sector.

However, the visit comes against a backdrop of unresolved trade tensions. Hopes of eliminating the 25% US tariff on British steel have been put on hold, disappointing an industry already under strain from high energy costs and weak demand.

For entrepreneurs, the announcement highlights both opportunity and caution. The wave of US capital could create fertile ground for start-ups to partner with global giants or tap into expanding supply chains. Yet small businesses must also prepare for intensifying competition, regulatory scrutiny and uncertainty over tariffs.