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Innovate UK Themed Competitions

Innovate UK Themed Competitions

Funds sector-themed innovation competitions in the United Kingdom for hydrogen, manufacturing, agri-tech, health, and AI.

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Innovate UK is the UK's national innovation agency, operating as one of nine councils within UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) under the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). Following the pause of Smart Grants in January 2025, with no Smart rounds in financial year 2025/26, Innovate UK's grant funding flows primarily through themed sector-specific competitions published on the…

Sector-specific Innovate UK competitions published on the Innovation Funding Service portal. Each competition has its own brief, deadline, and award range. Common themes: net-zero technologies, advanced manufacturing, healthtech, agritech, AI, space, defence.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Rolling
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.Rolling
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.18 weeks
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.Grant
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.30%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.£200M

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Last verified: 22 Jul 2026Source: www.ukri.org