Business funding in United Kingdom
Discover grants, loans and tax incentives available to businesses in United Kingdom, plus UK-wide schemes.
336
Active schemes
114
Local providers
United Kingdom
Region
Plus UK-wide
Coverage
National funding also applies
Active funding
Innovate UK Smart Grants
Funding for game-changing, commercially viable R&D innovation that can significantly impact the UK economy.
Innovate UK Innovation Loans
Loans for late-stage R&D projects with a clear route to commercialisation.
R&D Tax Relief
R&D Tax Relief is HMRC's statutory corporation-tax relief for UK companies that take a financial risk in resolving scientific or technological uncertainty. The merged RDEC scheme (accounting periods starting on or after 1 April 2024) gives most companies a 20% above-the-line credit; loss-making R&D-intensive SMEs may instead claim under the ERIS regime at a higher effective rate.
Patent Box
Patent Box lets UK companies elect into a reduced 10% effective corporation-tax rate on profits attributable to qualifying patented inventions and certain other IP rights granted by the UKIPO, EPO or specified EEA equivalents.
Start Up Loan
The Start Up Loan is an unsecured government-backed personal loan of £500–£25,000 (average ~£12k) for UK individuals starting or growing a business that has been trading for under 36 months. It is delivered by Start Up Loans Company, part of the British Business Bank, via accredited Delivery Partners, with a fixed 6% APR and free mentoring for 12 months.
UKEF General Export Facility
Government guarantees that help UK exporters access working capital.
Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS)
SEIS is a UK government tax-incentive scheme that lets very early-stage companies raise up to £250,000 of equity from individual investors, who in turn receive substantial income tax, capital gains and loss-relief benefits. It is the single most generous personal-tax incentive in the UK and is the default first equity instrument for pre-revenue or just-trading startups.
Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS)
EIS is the UK's flagship growth-equity tax incentive: companies under 7 years of trading (or knowledge-intensive companies under 10) can raise up to £5m a year and £12m lifetime from individual investors, who receive 30% income tax relief plus CGT and loss-relief benefits.
Innovate UK EDGE (Legacy Advisory Service)
Specialist innovation and scale-up advice for ambitious UK businesses.
Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP)
Part-funded partnership between a business, an academic team and a graduate to deliver a strategic project.
Apprenticeship Levy Transfer
Levy-paying employers can transfer up to 50% of their unused funds to other businesses.
Industrial Energy Transformation Fund
Capital grants to help industrial sites cut energy use and emissions.
Investors' Relief
Reduced 14% CGT rate on qualifying share disposals to incentivise long-term investment in unlisted companies.
Start Up Loans
UK government-backed personal loan for people starting or growing a new business (trading less than 36 months). Includes free mentoring.
ENABLE Funding (wholesale)
Wholesale programme that supports smaller lenders, asset finance providers and challenger banks to lend more to UK smaller businesses. Businesses receive funding indirectly via accredited partners.
British Patient Capital
UK government-backed investor in venture and growth capital funds that back high-growth UK businesses. Businesses receive equity via portfolio funds, not directly.
Export Insurance Policy
UKEF insurance that covers UK exporters against the risk of not being paid under an export contract due to political or commercial events.
Export Working Capital Scheme
UKEF partial guarantee to a UK exporter's bank to support working capital facilities tied to specific export contracts.
R&D Tax Relief for SMEs
Corporation tax relief for UK SMEs carrying out qualifying R&D. Rules and rates changed for accounting periods on or after 1 April 2024 — check current guidance before relying on historical rates.
R&D Expenditure Credit (RDEC)
Above-the-line R&D tax credit historically used by larger companies and now part of the merged R&D scheme. Check current guidance for applicable accounting periods.
Venture Capital Trusts (VCT)
Investor-side scheme: VCTs are listed funds that invest in qualifying UK smaller companies; investors get income tax relief and tax-free dividends.
Help to Grow: Management
12-week subsidised management training programme for senior leaders of UK SMEs, delivered by accredited business schools. Government covers 90% of the course fee.
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships — Management KTP
A variant of KTP focused on embedding strategic management practice from a UK business school into an SME.
UK Export Academy
Free training programme from the Department for Business and Trade to help UK SMEs build the knowledge and skills to sell internationally.
Faraday Battery Challenge
UK programme funding research and innovation to make the UK a leader in design, development and manufacture of electric vehicle batteries.
Advanced Propulsion Centre Collaborative R&D
UK programme funding collaborative R&D in low-carbon automotive propulsion technology, delivered with Innovate UK.
Aerospace Technology Institute Programme
UK joint government and industry programme funding civil aerospace research and technology, delivered with Innovate UK and the Department for Business and Trade.
Energy Entrepreneurs Fund
UK grant scheme supporting development and demonstration of energy efficiency, power generation and storage technologies. Run as periodic competition rounds.
Plug-in Van and Truck Grant
Discount applied at point of sale on eligible zero-emission vans, trucks, taxis, motorcycles and wheelchair-accessible vehicles for businesses and individuals. Categories and caps change — check current guidance.
Workplace Charging Scheme
Voucher-based UK scheme that covers part of the upfront cost of installing electric vehicle charge points at workplaces.
UK Shared Prosperity Fund
UK-wide fund channelled through local authorities to support local communities, people and businesses. Specific business support varies by area.
Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit
UK corporation tax credit for qualifying expenditure on film, high-end TV, animation and children's TV. Replaces previous separate film/TV reliefs for accounting periods starting on or after 1 January 2024.
Video Games Expenditure Credit
UK corporation tax credit for qualifying expenditure on the production of video games. Replaces Video Games Tax Relief for accounting periods starting on or after 1 January 2024.
Catapult Network Support
Access to the UK Catapult Network of technology and innovation centres supporting late-stage R&D and commercialisation.
Net Zero Innovation Portfolio
Programme funding innovation in clean energy technologies including hydrogen, storage, CCUS and industrial decarbonisation.
Manufacturing Made Smarter Innovation
Innovate UK competitions funding industrial digital technology R&D across UK manufacturing supply chains.
High Value Manufacturing Catapult
Access to UK advanced manufacturing R&D centres, equipment and expertise to support industrialisation of new products and processes.
Advanced Propulsion Centre Funding
Funding competitions supporting R&D in low-carbon automotive propulsion and zero-emission vehicle technologies in the UK.
Creative UK Investment
Loans, investment and business support for UK creative industry businesses including screen, games, design and music.
UK Games Fund
Grant funding and support for early-stage UK games studios, including the DunDev prototype fund and graduate programmes.
BFI Filmmaking Funds
National Lottery-backed funding from the BFI for UK film development, production, distribution and audience programmes.
UK Global Screen Fund
DCMS-funded programme administered by the BFI supporting UK independent screen content to reach international audiences.
Creative Industries Clusters Programme
UKRI-backed R&D programme funding creative industry clusters across the UK linking businesses and universities.
PRS Foundation Funding
Independent funder supporting new UK music creators, artists, promoters and music businesses through grant programmes.
ICURe Innovate Programme
Market discovery programme funding university researchers to test commercial potential of their research and form spinouts.
SETsquared Partnership Support
University-backed business acceleration programme across six leading UK universities for tech and research-led startups.
UK Tradeshow Programme support
DBT support helping UK businesses access international tradeshows through guidance, training and signposting.
Eureka Eurostars (UK)
International R&D funding for innovative SMEs collaborating across Eurostars member countries, with UK funding from Innovate UK.
Horizon Europe (UK participation)
UK participation in Horizon Europe research and innovation programme, with UKRI guarantee where applicable.
British Design Fund
Private investor-led fund providing equity investment and mentoring for UK product design and manufacturing startups.
Bristol City Council Business Support
Business support, premises and growth signposting for Bristol businesses via the City Council and West of England partners.
Business Lincolnshire Growth Hub
Free business support service for Greater Lincolnshire including adviser support and current grant programmes.
Cambridge Enterprise Commercialisation Support
Technology transfer, licensing and seed funding support linked to the University of Cambridge.
Cambridge Enterprise Spinout Support
University of Cambridge commercialisation arm providing IP licensing, consultancy and seed funding for spinouts.
D2N2 Growth Hub Business Support
Free, impartial business support across Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire.
Invest Bristol and Bath
Inward investment and business support service for Bristol and Bath, signposting current grants and incentives.
Kent and Medway Growth Hub
Single point of contact for business support and grants in Kent and Medway.
Leicester City Council Business Support
Business advice, rates information and links to current grant schemes for Leicester businesses.
Newcastle City Council Business Support
Council business advice, rates information and current grant programmes for Newcastle upon Tyne.
North East Growth Hub Support
Free business advice, toolkits and grant signposting for businesses across the North East of England.
North East Investment Zone Business Support
Investment, skills and innovation support linked to the North East Investment Zone in the green industries sector.
Nottingham City Council Business Support
Information and signposting for Nottingham businesses including rates relief and current grant programmes.
Oxford University Innovation Spinout Support
Commercialisation and spinout support from Oxford University, including IP licensing and venture creation for research-led companies.
Tees Valley Business Growth Fund
Capital grant support for SMEs investing in growth projects across the Tees Valley.
Tees Valley Investment Zone Business Support
Targeted investment, skills and innovation support linked to the Tees Valley Investment Zone.
DBT International Trade Advisers
Free one-to-one export advice for UK SMEs from DBT International Trade Advisers across English regions.
Smart Manufacturing Data Hub
Innovate UK-backed national programme helping UK manufacturers extract value from production data through shared infrastructure, pilots and capability support. Operates alongside Made Smarter as the data-and-analytics layer of UK manufacturing innovation.
Growth Guarantee Scheme
Successor to the Recovery Loan Scheme. A government-backed guarantee enabling accredited lenders to offer term loans, asset finance, invoice finance, overdrafts and revolving credit to UK smaller businesses.
Enterprise Capital Funds
British Business Bank programme co-investing alongside private venture capital fund managers to address the equity gap for high-potential early-stage UK SMEs.
Nations and Regions Investment Funds
Umbrella British Business Bank programme deploying debt and equity capital to smaller businesses across the UK's nations and English regions through delivery partners.
Bond Support Scheme
UKEF guarantee enabling UK exporters to obtain contract bonds from their bank by sharing the risk with the issuing bank.
Export Development Guarantee
UKEF guarantee supporting larger loans from commercial lenders to UK exporters investing in their export capability.
Buyer Credit Facility
UKEF guarantee on loans from banks to overseas buyers, enabling them to pay UK exporters for capital goods or services.
Direct Lending Facility
UKEF facility providing loans directly to overseas buyers to finance the purchase of UK goods and services.
Theatre Tax Relief
HMRC corporation tax relief for qualifying theatrical production companies on core production expenditure.
Orchestra Tax Relief
HMRC corporation tax relief for qualifying orchestral production companies on core concert expenditure.
Museums and Galleries Exhibition Tax Relief
HMRC corporation tax relief for qualifying museums and galleries on core expenditure for charitable exhibitions.
Land Remediation Relief
HMRC corporation tax relief on qualifying costs of cleaning up contaminated or long-term derelict land in the UK.
ICURe (Innovation-to-Commercialisation of University Research)
Innovate UK programme helping early-career researchers test the commercial potential of their university research before forming a company or licensing.
Eureka Eurostars
Innovate UK / Eureka grant for SME-led international collaborative R&D projects developing innovative products, processes or services.
Future Leaders Fellowships
UKRI fellowship scheme supporting early-career researchers and innovators in academia and business to tackle ambitious research and innovation challenges.
BBSRC LINK
BBSRC collaborative research grant supporting industry-academic partnerships in bioscience.
NERC Innovation Funding
Natural Environment Research Council schemes supporting translation of environmental science research into commercial and societal impact.
MRC Developmental Pathway Funding Scheme
MRC scheme funding translational development of therapeutics, devices and diagnostics from late discovery through to early-phase clinical testing.
EPSRC Impact Acceleration Accounts
Block awards to UK universities enabling them to support knowledge exchange and early-stage commercialisation of engineering and physical sciences research.
UK Tradeshow Programme
DBT programme supporting UK businesses to exhibit at or attend selected overseas trade shows.
Made in the UK, Sold to the World
DBT export support campaign and toolkit helping UK businesses promote their products and services internationally.
UKRI Prosperity Partnerships
UKRI-funded strategic R&D partnerships co-developed by UK businesses and universities.
UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships
A flagship UKRI scheme funding ambitious research and innovation leaders across academia and business.
Innovate UK Business Growth
An Innovate UK service providing free, account-managed innovation and growth advisory support to UK SMEs.
Innovate UK Business Connect
The UK's national innovation network, brokering connections between innovators, investors and large organisations.
Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult Programmes
The UK Catapult for compound semiconductor applications, based in South Wales.
Energy Systems Catapult Programmes
The UK innovation centre focused on decarbonising the whole energy system.
Medicines Discovery Catapult Programmes
The UK national centre for early-stage drug discovery support to SMEs.
Satellite Applications Catapult Programmes
The UK innovation centre for space-enabled applications, Earth observation data and downstream space services.
Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult Programmes
The UK centre of excellence for cell and gene therapy commercialisation and manufacturing.
Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult Programmes
The UK's leading offshore renewable energy R&D and testing centre.
Connected Places Catapult Programmes
The UK accelerator for cities, transport and places — supporting innovation in mobility and the built environment.
Digital Catapult Programmes
The UK's authority on advanced digital technology, offering programmes, lab access and industry-led innovation projects.
Hydrogen Production Business Model
A long-term UK government revenue support contract that makes low-carbon hydrogen production projects commercially viable.
Hydrogen Allocation Round
A competitive UK government process awarding long-term revenue support contracts to electrolytic hydrogen production projects.
Standard Buyer Loan Guarantee
A UKEF guarantee that enables banks to lend to overseas buyers of UK exports, helping UK exporters compete on payment terms.
Supplier Credit Financing Facility
A UKEF guarantee that lets banks lend to overseas buyers so UK exporters can offer medium-term payment terms while being paid up front.
British Business Investments
A British Business Bank subsidiary that invests in finance providers to expand the supply of debt and asset finance to UK SMEs.
ENABLE Guarantees
A wholesale guarantee programme that reduces the capital cost for banks lending to UK SMEs, indirectly increasing the supply of finance.
Regional Angels Programme
A British Business Bank programme that channels capital to angel investor groups across the UK, with a focus on regions outside London.
Future Fund: Breakthrough
A government-backed co-investment programme designed to support high-growth, R&D-intensive UK companies through large private funding rounds.
Made Smarter Innovation
UKRI/Innovate UK's R&D programme for industrial digital technologies in UK manufacturing.
Innovate UK Net Zero Living
Innovate UK programme funding place-based net-zero transition projects.
Innovate UK AI Programmes
A rolling portfolio of Innovate UK AI programmes spanning safety, adoption and foundation work.
Innovate UK Feasibility Studies
Innovate UK funding for early-stage technical and commercial feasibility studies.
Advanced Propulsion Centre R&D Funding
A UK government–industry programme co-funding low-carbon automotive R&D.
Aerospace Technology Institute Programme — Strategic R&T Portfolio
A long-term UK government–industry co-investment in civil aerospace R&D.
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships
A long-running Innovate UK scheme part-funding academic–business knowledge transfer projects.
Connected Places Innovation Challenge Funds
A rolling Catapult-delivered set of challenge-led pilot and grant opportunities in places and transport.
Innovation Loans Future Economy: Investor Partnerships
An Innovate UK loan product combined with Investor Partnership equity rounds for late-stage R&D.
BFI Filmmaking Fund
A National Lottery-funded BFI programme supporting UK independent filmmaking.
UKRI Strength in Places Fund
A UKRI fund supporting major place-based research and innovation consortia.
Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund
Ofgem's innovation fund for UK energy networks, partnered with SMEs and academia.
National Quantum Technologies Programme
A UK government programme coordinating quantum technology research, infrastructure and industry engagement.
AHDB Export Programme
Trade development support from AHDB for the UK agri-food supply chain.
Innovate UK Mission Awards
Innovate UK's mission-led grant programmes addressing strategic UK challenges.
Innovate UK Investor Partnerships
Innovate UK grants paired with private equity raises through approved investor partners.
Innovate UK Launchpads
A place-based Innovate UK programme combining themed grants with ecosystem support.
Cancer Research Horizons
Cancer Research UK's commercialisation arm supporting oncology translation and spinouts.
Royal Society Industry Fellowships
A Royal Society scheme funding academic–industry secondments to build research collaborations.
BBSRC Impact Acceleration Accounts
A UKRI/BBSRC translational funding stream for biosciences research, accessible via partner universities.
Big Issue Invest Funds
Big Issue Group's social investment arm providing loans and equity to mission-led businesses.
Wellcome Leap Programmes
Wellcome's programmes for breakthrough global health science, open to UK participants.
School for Social Entrepreneurs Programmes
A UK learning network for social entrepreneurs, sometimes paired with grant funding.
UnLtd Awards
UK foundation providing awards and support to social entrepreneurs.
Nesta Mission Programmes
UK innovation foundation running mission-driven programmes in health, sustainability and equity.
UCL Business Spinout Support
UCL's commercialisation arm supporting spinouts, licensing and translational research.
Parkwalk Advisors EIS Funds
A UK EIS fund manager specialising in university spinouts.
Northern Accelerator
A multi-university programme supporting spinout creation in the North East of England.
Northern Gritstone
An investor backing IP-rich spinouts from the universities of Leeds, Manchester and Sheffield.
Cambridge Innovation Capital
A venture investor backing Cambridge cluster deep tech and life sciences companies.
Oxford Science Enterprises
An independent investor backing University of Oxford spinouts in life sciences, deep tech and health.
Centre for Process Innovation Programmes
An HVMC centre supporting process manufacturing, formulation, biotech and printable electronics.
National Composites Centre Programmes
An HVMC centre focused on composite materials R&D and SME engagement.
Nuclear AMRC Programmes
An HVMC centre helping UK manufacturers enter the civil nuclear supply chain.
Manufacturing Technology Centre Programmes
A High Value Manufacturing Catapult centre supporting advanced manufacturing R&D and SME programmes.
Green Industries Growth Accelerator
A UK government programme supporting manufacturing investment in clean-energy supply chains.
Industrial Decarbonisation Challenge
A UKRI flagship funding decarbonisation projects in major UK industrial clusters.
CCUS Cluster Sequencing Programme
The UK government's framework for selecting CCUS clusters and projects to receive deployment support.
Great British Insulation Scheme (GBIS)
An Ofgem-administered energy supplier obligation funding home insulation measures across Great Britain.
Contracts for Difference (CfD)
The UK's primary support scheme for new low-carbon electricity generation, awarded via competitive allocation rounds.
UK Innovation Investment Fund
A UK fund-of-funds backing venture capital funds that invest in high-growth UK technology businesses.
British Business Bank Investment Programme
A British Business Bank programme that backs alternative finance providers to expand SME credit supply.
British Business Bank Managed Funds Programme
A British Business Bank programme that cornerstones large UK growth-equity fund-of-funds.
Enterprise Management Incentives (EMI)
A flagship UK tax-advantaged share option scheme for qualifying SMEs and their employees.
Animation Tax Relief
A UK corporation tax relief for production companies making qualifying animation programmes.
R&D Intensive SME Scheme (ERIS)
An enhanced HMRC R&D tax credit scheme for loss-making, R&D-intensive UK SMEs.
Cultural Gifts Scheme
A UK tax incentive for donating important cultural objects to public collections.
Children's Television Tax Relief
A UK corporation tax relief for production companies making qualifying children's television programmes.
Greater Manchester Green Economy Fund
Green economy support for Greater Manchester SMEs.
Leicester Business Grants
Leicester City Council business grants and place programmes.
Bristol City Business Grants
Bristol City Council business and place grants.
Coast to Capital Business Support
Growth hub for the Sussex–Surrey–Gatwick corridor with advisor access and grant signposting.
Liverpool City Region Business & Innovation Grants
Capital and innovation grants delivered by Growth Platform on behalf of LCRCA.
West of England Business Growth Programme
WECA growth grants and adviser programmes for West of England SMEs.
Tees Valley Business Support
One-stop business support service operated by Tees Valley Combined Authority, providing advisor access and signposting to active local grant and loan programmes.
Newcastle Business Energy & Improvement Grants
Newcastle City Council business energy and improvement grants.
Made Smarter North West Adoption Grant
Match-funded digital adoption grants for SME manufacturers in the North West.
Liverpool City Region Export Support
Export support programme for LCR SMEs delivered with DBT.
Swindon & Wiltshire Growth Hub
Growth hub for Wiltshire and Swindon with productivity programmes and grant signposting.
SEMLEP Business Support
South East Midlands growth hub spanning the corridor between Oxford and Cambridge.
Liverpool Local Business Support Grants
Liverpool City Council local SME and place-based grant programmes.
New Anglia Growth Hub
Norfolk and Suffolk growth hub with sector specialists.
Greater Manchester Investment Zone Business Support
Investment Zone business support package for Greater Manchester.
Tees Valley Export Support Programme
Export readiness programme for Tees Valley SMEs delivered with DBT.
Manchester Business Improvement Fund
Manchester City Council business and place grants for premises and high street improvements.
LCR Net Zero Accelerator
City-region net zero accelerator combining grants with technical advice.
OxLEP Business Support
Oxfordshire growth hub with scale-up specialists and grant signposting.
North East Business Growth Fund
NECA growth grants and advisor support for North East SMEs.
Greater Manchester Low Carbon Business Support
Decarbonisation advisor and grant programme for Greater Manchester SMEs.
East Midlands Investment Zone Business Support
Investment Zone business support for the East Midlands.
Gloucestershire Growth Hub
University-delivered growth hub for Gloucestershire with sector specialists and grant signposting.
Tees Valley Business Energy Savings Grant
Decarbonisation grant for Tees Valley SMEs paired with energy audits.
Supply Chain North East
North East supply chain capability programme with optional grant top-ups.
Sheffield City Business Grants
Sheffield City Council business and place grants.
North East Investment Zone — Programme Overview
Investment Zone business support for the North East.
Coventry & Warwickshire Business Support
Coventry & Warwickshire growth hub with sector specialists and grant signposting.
Tees Valley Business Growth Grant
Capital grant for Tees Valley SMEs investing in growth and job creation.
West of England Low Carbon Challenge Programmes
Low carbon challenge funding for innovators working with WECA.
Cheshire & Warrington Business Support
Regional growth hub for Cheshire and Warrington with advisor access and signposting to live business grants and programmes.
Greater Manchester Business Growth Hub Grants
Portfolio of GMCA-funded grants delivered via GC Business Growth Hub.
Liverpool City Region Investment Zone Business Support
Investment Zone business support for Liverpool City Region.
Innovation Greater Manchester
City-region innovation partnership coordinating SME R&D support.
Heart of the South West Growth Hub
Multi-county growth hub for Devon, Plymouth, Somerset and Torbay with sector specialists.
Tees Valley Investment Zone — Programme Overview
Investment Zone business support package for Tees Valley.
Stoke & Staffordshire Business Support
Growth hub for Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire with sector specialists and grant signposting.
Buckinghamshire Business First
Buckinghamshire business representative and growth hub with advisor access.
Worcestershire Business Central
County-wide business support hub for Worcestershire with advisor access and grant navigation.
Dorset Growth Hub
Dorset business support hub with advisor access and grant signposting.
West of England Investment Zone Business Support
Investment Zone business support for West of England.
Enterprise M3 Business Support
M3 corridor growth hub with sector specialists and grant signposting.
Boost — Lancashire Business Support
Lancashire-wide business support service offering advisors, programmes and signposting to live grants and loans across the county.
Leeds City Business Grants
Leeds City Council shopfront and SME grant programmes.
Coventry City Business Grants
Coventry City Council business and place grants.
West of England Green Business Grant
Decarbonisation grants and energy advisor access for West of England SMEs.
Nottingham Business Growth Grant
Nottingham City Council business growth grants delivered with D2N2 Growth Hub.
Hull & East Yorkshire Business Support
Growth hub covering Hull and East Riding with advisor support and signposting to live grant and loan programmes.
EPSRC Standard Research Grants
EPSRC Standard Research Grants. Open to UK research organisations eligible for UKRI funding. Principal investigator must hold an academic post at an eligible institution. No fixed deadline.
EPSRC New Investigator Award
EPSRC New Investigator Award. Early-career researchers who have not previously led a research project. Must hold a permanent or open-ended academic post at an eligible UK institution.
EPSRC Prosperity Partnerships
EPSRC Prosperity Partnerships. Co-created business-led research partnerships between UK universities and established companies. Industry must commit significant cash and in-kind support.
EPSRC Programme Grants
EPSRC Programme Grants. For large, ambitious research programmes addressing significant challenges. Open to UKRI-eligible research organisations led by world-leading PIs.
BBSRC Responsive Mode Grants
BBSRC Responsive Mode Grants. Open to researchers at UKRI-eligible UK research organisations. Investigator-led applications within BBSRC remit (biosciences). Two rounds per year.
BBSRC Industrial Partnership Awards
BBSRC Industrial Partnership Awards. Academic-led projects with at least 10% cash contribution from an industrial partner. Applies via BBSRC responsive mode.
BBSRC Follow-on Funding
BBSRC Follow-on Funding. Translates BBSRC-funded research towards commercial or societal impact. Open to UK research organisations.
MRC Research Grants
MRC Research Grants. Investigator-led medical research projects. Open to UK research organisations eligible for UKRI funding. Three deadlines per year.
MRC Experimental Medicine
MRC Experimental Medicine. For clinical or human-tissue studies that increase understanding of disease mechanisms. UK research organisations and NHS partners.
MRC Confidence in Concept
MRC Confidence in Concept. Block awards to institutions to fund early translational projects (proof-of-concept). Awarded via institutional internal calls.
NERC Knowledge Exchange Fellowships
NERC Knowledge Exchange Fellowships. Up to 3 years, for environmental researchers working with end-users to translate science into impact. UK research organisations.
NERC Pushing the Frontiers (Discovery Science)
NERC Pushing the Frontiers (Discovery Science). Investigator-led discovery science across NERC remit. Twice yearly. Eligible UK research organisations.
AHRC Research Grants
AHRC Research Grants. Open to UK research organisations for arts and humanities research projects, including industry partners. Applications via Je-S/TFS.
AHRC Creative Industries Clusters Programme
AHRC Creative Industries Clusters Programme. University-led R&D clusters partnering with creative industry SMEs across the UK.
ESRC Impact Acceleration Accounts
ESRC Impact Acceleration Accounts. Institutional block awards enabling social-science researchers to pursue impact, secondments, and knowledge exchange.
STFC Innovations & Knowledge Exchange
STFC Innovations & Knowledge Exchange. Supports translation of STFC-funded research and industrial partnerships in physics, space, and computing.
Digital Catapult Machine Intelligence Garage
Digital Catapult Machine Intelligence Garage. AI and machine learning startups needing access to compute, expertise, and ethics support.
Connected Places Catapult SME Accelerators
Connected Places Catapult SME Accelerators. UK SMEs in mobility, smart cities, and built environment. Cohort-based accelerator programmes.
Energy Systems Catapult Innovator Support
Energy Systems Catapult Innovator Support. Energy innovators seeking technical and commercial validation. UK-based SMEs.
Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult Skills & Training Grants
Cell and Gene Therapy Catapult Skills & Training Grants. UK companies in advanced therapy manufacturing and skills. Open call programmes.
Medicines Discovery Catapult Open Calls
Medicines Discovery Catapult Open Calls. UK SMEs in drug discovery seeking access to capabilities, data, and collaboration.
Satellite Applications Catapult SPRINT
Satellite Applications Catapult SPRINT. UK companies using satellite data or technology to develop new products and services. Match-funded R&D access.
ORE Catapult Launch Academy
ORE Catapult Launch Academy. Offshore renewable energy startups in the UK. Cohort accelerator and incubator.
Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult Open Calls
Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult Open Calls. UK companies developing applications of compound semiconductor technology.
HVM Catapult Manufacturing Innovation Vouchers
HVM Catapult Manufacturing Innovation Vouchers. UK manufacturing SMEs accessing technical expertise across the seven HVM centres.
NIHR Invention for Innovation (i4i) Product Development Awards
NIHR Invention for Innovation (i4i) Product Development Awards. UK SMEs, NHS organisations or universities developing medical devices, IVDs, or technology-dependent interventions for the NHS.
NIHR i4i Connect
NIHR i4i Connect. SME-led med-tech projects at TRL 3–4 needing de-risking before later-stage funding.
NIHR AI in Health and Care Award
NIHR AI in Health and Care Award. Cross-sector partnerships testing AI technologies in health and care settings across England.
NIHR Health Technology Assessment Programme
NIHR Health Technology Assessment Programme. Researchers evaluating cost-effectiveness and impact of health technologies for NHS decision-making.
NIHR Public Health Research Programme
NIHR Public Health Research Programme. Researchers evaluating non-NHS public-health interventions across the UK.
NIHR Programme Grants for Applied Research
NIHR Programme Grants for Applied Research. Multi-year applied health and care research programmes led by senior investigators.
LifeArc Translational Challenges
LifeArc Translational Challenges. UK academics and SMEs translating life-science research towards patient impact across rare disease, respiratory, infection.
LifeArc Seed Fund Co-Investment
LifeArc Seed Fund Co-Investment. UK life-science startups raising seed rounds. LifeArc co-invests alongside lead investors.
Cancer Research Horizons Translation Funding
Cancer Research Horizons Translation Funding. Researchers and CRUK-supported teams translating discoveries into oncology products and companies.
Wellcome Discovery Awards
Wellcome Discovery Awards. Researchers at any career stage pursuing bold, transformative discovery research within Wellcome remit.
Wellcome Translation Awards
Wellcome Translation Awards. Researchers and SMEs translating biomedical research into early proof-of-principle products.
Wellcome Climate and Health Awards
Wellcome Climate and Health Awards. Research teams generating evidence on how climate change affects health and how to mitigate harm.
Wellcome Mental Health Awards
Wellcome Mental Health Awards. Researchers studying anxiety, depression and psychosis with potential for early intervention and treatment.
ARIA Programmable Plants Opportunity Space
ARIA Programmable Plants Opportunity Space. Research teams and companies exploring programmable plant biology for resilient food systems. Funded via Creators and Solicitations.
ARIA Scoping Our Planet Opportunity Space
ARIA Scoping Our Planet Opportunity Space. Researchers and engineers building cheaper, more comprehensive earth-observation sensing platforms.
ARIA Precision Neurotechnologies
ARIA Precision Neurotechnologies. Teams advancing precision neurotechnology beyond current TRL ceilings.
ARIA Mathematics for Safe AI
ARIA Mathematics for Safe AI. Mathematicians and AI researchers building verifiable guarantees for AI systems.
ARIA Forecasting Tipping Points
ARIA Forecasting Tipping Points. Researchers developing tools to anticipate climate tipping-point risks.
DASA Open Call for Innovation
DASA Open Call for Innovation. UK-based companies and academics with defence and security innovation. Rolling submissions.
DASA Themed Competitions
DASA Themed Competitions. UK-based businesses and researchers responding to specific defence and security challenges.
ESA ARTES Programme (UK)
ESA ARTES Programme (UK). UK companies developing satellite communications products and services through ESA contracts; co-funded by UK Space Agency.
ESA Business Applications (Space Solutions)
ESA Business Applications (Space Solutions). UK companies developing commercial services using space data or technology.
ESA Kick-Start Activities (UK)
ESA Kick-Start Activities (UK). UK companies exploring feasibility of new space-enabled commercial services.
ESA InCubed Programme
ESA InCubed Programme. UK companies developing innovative commercial Earth observation products and services. 50% co-funding.
Octopus Titan VCT
Octopus Titan VCT. UK early-stage technology businesses raising equity. Octopus invests via the Titan VCT (HMRC-approved Venture Capital Trust).
Octopus Future Generations VCT
Octopus Future Generations VCT. UK companies aligned with positive social or environmental outcomes raising equity from a VCT.
Foresight Williams Technology VCT
Foresight Williams Technology VCT. UK technology businesses leveraging advanced engineering or data. Co-managed with Williams Advanced Engineering.
Foresight Enterprise VCT
Foresight Enterprise VCT. UK SMEs raising VCT-qualifying growth capital across sectors.
Mercia EIS Fund
Mercia EIS Fund. UK early-stage businesses eligible for EIS. Mercia invests typically £250k–£2m at seed and Series A.
Maven Income & Growth VCT
Maven Income & Growth VCT. UK SMEs raising VCT-qualifying capital, typically £500k–£10m, across regional UK markets.
Puma VCT
Puma VCT. UK SMEs raising VCT-qualifying growth capital, typically £2m–£10m.
Triple Point Venture VCT
Triple Point Venture VCT. UK B2B technology startups raising seed/Series A VCT-qualifying capital.
Calculus VCT
Calculus VCT. UK companies raising VCT-qualifying capital, typically £1m–£5m, across selected sectors.
Albion VCTs
Albion VCTs. UK growth companies in software, healthcare, and digital infrastructure raising £2m–£10m+.
Pembroke VCT
Pembroke VCT. UK consumer brands at growth stage seeking VCT-qualifying capital.
Praetura EIS Growth Fund
Praetura EIS Growth Fund. UK Northern-based EIS-qualifying companies raising early-stage equity, typically £500k–£3m.
BGF Growth Capital
BGF Growth Capital. UK and Irish SMEs with turnover £1m+ raising minority growth equity (£1m–£15m initially).
Hambro Perks Co-Investment
Hambro Perks Co-Investment. UK and European early-stage technology companies raising seed and Series A capital.
IP Group Deep Tech Investments
IP Group Deep Tech Investments. UK university spinouts in deep tech, life sciences, cleantech raising founding and growth equity.
Parkwalk Advisors University Spinout Funds
Parkwalk Advisors University Spinout Funds. UK university spinouts (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial, Bristol and partners) raising EIS-qualifying equity.
Plug-in Vehicle Grants (Vans, Trucks, Taxis)
Plug-in Vehicle Grants (Vans, Trucks, Taxis). UK businesses purchasing eligible electric vans, trucks, taxis, motorcycles and wheelchair-accessible vehicles.
EV Infrastructure Grant for SMEs
EV Infrastructure Grant for SMEs. UK SMEs (<250 staff) installing EV chargepoint infrastructure including supporting wiring.
Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition
Clean Maritime Demonstration Competition. UK consortia developing zero-emission maritime technologies and infrastructure.
Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator
Zero Emission HGV and Infrastructure Demonstrator. UK consortia trialling battery electric and hydrogen HGVs and refuelling infrastructure at scale.
Innovation Accelerator Programme
Innovation Accelerator Programme. Businesses and research organisations in Glasgow, Greater Manchester, and West Midlands clusters.
Horizon Europe — EIC Pathfinder
Horizon Europe — EIC Pathfinder. UK research organisations and deep-tech startups participating as associated country partners in EIC Pathfinder.
Horizon Europe — EIC Accelerator
Horizon Europe — EIC Accelerator. UK SMEs and small midcaps progressing breakthrough innovations toward market via grant + equity blended finance.
UK Community Ownership Fund
UK Community Ownership Fund. Community groups across the UK acquiring or saving local assets such as pubs, theatres, sports facilities.
Innovate UK Launchpads
Innovate UK Launchpads. UK SMEs in designated regional innovation clusters across digital, net-zero, cyber, agri-tech and creative sectors.
Innovate UK ICURe Programme
Innovate UK ICURe Programme. UK university researchers exploring commercial potential of research via market discovery.
Innovate UK Analysis for Innovators (A4I)
Innovate UK Analysis for Innovators (A4I). UK businesses with measurement/analysis problems matched with national laboratory expertise.
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP)
Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTP). UK businesses partnering with universities and a graduate associate on a strategic innovation project.
Management KTP
Management KTP. UK businesses transforming management capability through business-school partnership and embedded graduate.
Accelerated Knowledge Transfer (aKT)
Accelerated Knowledge Transfer (aKT). UK businesses partnering with an academic to deliver a 4-month feasibility-style KTP.
National Underwriting Fund (UKEF General Export Facility)
National Underwriting Fund (UKEF General Export Facility). UK exporters needing working capital. UKEF guarantees up to 80% of lender exposure.
UKEF Export Insurance Policy
UKEF Export Insurance Policy. UK exporters protecting against non-payment by overseas buyers.
Innovate UK Contracts for Innovation (SBRI)
Innovate UK Contracts for Innovation (SBRI). UK businesses bidding for contracted R&D to address public sector challenges via SBRI competitions.
Innovate UK Investor Partnerships
Innovate UK Investor Partnerships. UK businesses raising equity from approved investors, with co-funding from Innovate UK for R&D.
British Academy Small Research Grants
British Academy Small Research Grants. Humanities and social science researchers based at UK institutions undertaking new research.
Advanced Propulsion Centre Collaborative R&D
Advanced Propulsion Centre Collaborative R&D. UK automotive supply chain consortia developing low-carbon propulsion technologies.
Automotive Transformation Fund
Automotive Transformation Fund. UK strategic investments in electric vehicle supply chains: battery, motor, hydrogen and power electronics gigaprojects.
Aerospace Technology Institute Programme
Aerospace Technology Institute Programme. UK aerospace R&D consortia developing sustainable aviation technologies. Match-funded with industry.
ATI Sustainable Aviation Demonstrators
ATI Sustainable Aviation Demonstrators. UK aerospace consortia demonstrating sustainable propulsion, hydrogen and SAF technologies at scale.
National Quantum Computing Centre Programmes
National Quantum Computing Centre Programmes. UK quantum-computing researchers, hardware developers and end-users accessing NQCC programmes and testbeds.
UKRI Quantum Missions Pilot Competition
UKRI Quantum Missions Pilot Competition. UK consortia advancing quantum technology toward the five National Quantum Missions.
Cyber Runway
Cyber Runway. UK cyber-security companies from launch to scale receiving non-equity accelerator support funded by DSIT.
UK Tech Hub Network — Export Missions
UK Tech Hub Network — Export Missions. UK technology businesses joining DBT-led export missions and overseas tech hubs.
Global Entrepreneur Programme
Global Entrepreneur Programme. Overseas-domiciled high-potential entrepreneurs relocating headquarters to the UK.
British Patient Capital Co-Investment
British Patient Capital Co-Investment. UK high-growth companies raising late-stage rounds via BPC fund and direct co-investments.
Start Up Loans — Mentoring Programme
Start Up Loans — Mentoring Programme. UK Start Up Loan recipients accessing 12 months of free business mentoring.
Help to Grow: Management
Help to Grow: Management. UK SMEs with 5–249 employees. 12-week leadership programme delivered by Small Business Charter business schools.
Innovate UK Women in Innovation Awards
Innovate UK Women in Innovation Awards. Women-led UK businesses with innovative ideas. £75k grant + 12 months bespoke mentoring.
Innovate UK Young Innovators Award
Innovate UK Young Innovators Award. UK entrepreneurs aged 18–30 with high-potential innovative businesses.
Global Business Innovation Programme
Global Business Innovation Programme. UK innovative SMEs exploring international markets via cohort missions to selected countries and sectors.
Innovate UK Business Connect Networks
Innovate UK Business Connect Networks. UK innovators of any stage accessing Innovate UK Business Connect networks, events and partnering.
BFI Young Audiences Content Fund
BFI Young Audiences Content Fund. UK production companies developing scripted live-action and animated content for young UK audiences.
PRS Foundation Momentum Music Fund
PRS Foundation Momentum Music Fund. UK-based artists and bands at a tipping-point moment in their career.
UK Games Fund Prototype Fund
UK Games Fund Prototype Fund. UK-registered micro and small studios developing original game prototypes for commercial release.
UK Games Fund DunDev/Tranzfuser
UK Games Fund DunDev/Tranzfuser. UK university graduate teams prototyping games as a route into the games industry.
National Lottery Heritage Fund Grants
National Lottery Heritage Fund Grants. UK heritage organisations and partnerships delivering heritage outcomes. Funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund.
NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme
NHS Clinical Entrepreneur Programme. NHS staff developing innovations alongside their clinical role with structured support, mentoring and partnerships.
Innovate UK Fast Start
Innovate UK Fast Start. UK SMEs with disruptive innovation ideas seeking initial proof-of-concept funding via competitive call.
Innovate UK Collaborative R&D
Innovate UK Collaborative R&D. UK consortia (at least two organisations including an SME) delivering industrial R&D projects.
SBRI Healthcare Competitions
SBRI Healthcare Competitions. UK SMEs developing solutions to NHS-defined clinical challenges via SBRI procurement competitions.
NHS Supply Chain Innovation Programme
NHS Supply Chain Innovation Programme. UK suppliers introducing innovative products into NHS supply chain via clinical and procurement pathway.
Centre for Process Innovation — Open Calls
Centre for Process Innovation — Open Calls. UK process manufacturers accessing CPI capability via Innovate UK competition and CPI-led projects.
National Composites Centre Open Programmes
National Composites Centre Open Programmes. UK composite-using manufacturers accessing NCC R&D programmes via Innovate UK or industry-led calls.
Manufacturing Technology Centre — Industry Programmes
Manufacturing Technology Centre — Industry Programmes. UK manufacturers accessing MTC R&D via Innovate UK competitions, industry-funded programmes and consortia.
Nuclear AMRC Industry Programmes
Nuclear AMRC Industry Programmes. UK manufacturers entering and scaling in civil nuclear supply chains via Nuclear AMRC programmes.
UK Spaceports Funding Support
UK Spaceports Funding Support. UK organisations developing licensed launch capability and supporting infrastructure.
UK Space Agency Bilateral & National Calls
UK Space Agency Bilateral & National Calls. UK organisations responding to UKSA national and bilateral programme calls (Earth observation, navigation, exploration).
Innovate UK BridgeAI
Innovate UK BridgeAI. UK businesses in priority sectors adopting AI through partnered support, grant calls and bootcamps.
Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund Calls (Open)
Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund Calls (Open). UK industrial R&D consortia responding to open Challenge Fund competitions.
Innovate UK Net Zero Living
Innovate UK Net Zero Living. UK local authorities and businesses delivering place-based net zero projects.
R&D Expenditure Credit (RDEC)
R&D Expenditure Credit (RDEC). UK companies (large or small) carrying out qualifying R&D — for most claims from April 2024, the merged RDEC scheme applies.
SME R&D Tax Relief (Enhanced Intensive)
SME R&D Tax Relief (Enhanced Intensive). UK loss-making R&D-intensive SMEs (R&D >=30% of expenditure). Enhanced credit rate applies.
Creative Industry Tax Reliefs
Creative Industry Tax Reliefs. UK companies in qualifying creative sectors (film, TV, animation, video games, theatre, museums).
Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit (AVEC)
Audio-Visual Expenditure Credit (AVEC). UK film, high-end TV, animation, and childrens TV producers replacing legacy creative reliefs from 2024.
National Lottery Awards for All
National Lottery Awards for All. UK charities, voluntary or community organisations, social enterprises and statutory bodies running small projects.
Princes Trust Enterprise Programme
Princes Trust Enterprise Programme. UK residents aged 18–30 starting or growing a business. Free training, mentoring and small grants.
UKEF Bond Support Scheme
UKEF Bond Support Scheme. UK exporters needing contract bonds. UKEF guarantees up to 80% of bond exposure.
UKEF Direct Lending Facility
UKEF Direct Lending Facility. Overseas buyers of UK exports needing competitive financing. UKEF lends directly when commercial banks cannot.
Growth Guarantee Scheme (formerly Recovery Loan)
Growth Guarantee Scheme (formerly Recovery Loan). UK SMEs (under £45m turnover) accessing loans, overdrafts, invoice and asset finance through accredited lenders with 70% government guarantee.
Start Up Loans Personal Loan
Start Up Loans Personal Loan. UK residents aged 18+ starting a new business or trading less than 36 months. Personal loan with mentoring.
Innovate UK BridgeAI Skills Programme
Innovate UK BridgeAI Skills Programme. UK SMEs in agriculture, construction, creative, and transport sectors accessing AI skills bootcamps and support.
Eureka Network Projects (UK)
Eureka Network Projects (UK). UK businesses joining transnational Eureka Network projects co-funded by Innovate UK.
Innovate UK Investor Readiness Programme
Innovate UK Investor Readiness Programme. UK innovative SMEs preparing for equity fundraising via cohort training and 1:1 support.
Innovate UK Cyber Security Academic Startup Accelerator (CyberASAP)
Innovate UK Cyber Security Academic Startup Accelerator (CyberASAP). UK academic teams commercialising cyber-security IP. Two-phase accelerator with proof-of-concept funding.