TECs, which existed across England and Wales (see map), were government-funded bodies which aimed to foster local economic growth and development, and encourage investment. They helped businesses set up, grow and evolve, provided training and support for the unemployed and funded vocational qualifications. They also tried to co-ordinate educational provision to the future needs of local industry.

In April 2001 however the 72 English and 4 Welsh TECs were disbanded. A large part of their remit has been transferred to Local Learning and Skills Councils (LLSCs) in England, and the regional offices of Education and Learning Wales (ELWa) in Wales. More information on LLSCs and ELWa regions.

In Scotland, the equivalent of TECs are Local Enterprise Companies (LECs) and these do still exist.

No similar bodies exist in Northern Ireland.