Innovate UK Smart Grants: October 2019

Apply for a share of £25 million to support innovative ideas with commercial potential

Smart is Innovate UK‘s open grant funding programme. Up to £25 million is available to support the best game-changing and commercially viable ideas across a whole range of technology areas.

Projects can focus on any area of technology and on any area of the economy including:

  • arts, design and media
  • creative industries
  • science and engineering

Projects in support of one of the grand challenges in the UK government’s Industrial Strategy are welcomed but this is not necessary. All SMEs involved in funded projects will also be offered business growth support from the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN).

The competition will support a range of projects from short feasibility studies to larger research and development projects and experimental development lasting up to three years.

Applicants must show they have:

  • a game-changing idea that could lead to commercially viable new products, processes or services
  • a strong business plan and a plan to deliver a significant economic impact

The competition opens on 17 October 2019, and the closing date is at midday on 8 January 2020. Businesses of any size may apply.

Projects are expected to vary in size between £25,000 and £2 million. An online briefing event will be held on 24 October 2019.

Find out more about this competition and apply.