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Innovate UK

Quantum computing applications for large scale impact: CR&D

Build quantum software that solves a named industrial problem better than classical methods.

OpenInnovate UKUnited Kingdom

Innovate UK is sharing £13 million across projects that build quantum computing software for a real, named problem — not for hardware that does not exist yet. Your project has to identify a specific industrial or public sector problem, write software that addresses it, and show the result running or simulated on a near-term quantum machine.

Grants run from £300,000 to £4 million. Projects last 24…

Your project must focus on at least one of five themes: healthcare and drug discovery, finance, optimisation for transport and infrastructure, design and simulation of new materials, or quantum machine learning. Innovate UK also encourages projects aligned to national priorities — energy systems, infrastructure, transport, financial services, healthcare, climate resilience, security and productivity. Projects must show the quantum approach offers an advantage over classical methods now or in the near term, and present a credible plan for adoption and scaling in the UK. Only industrial research projects are funded.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.One-off
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.16 Sept 2026
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.—
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.24–36 months
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.—
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.£13M

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Last verified: 27 Aug 2026Funder reference: ukri-post-200220Source: www.ukri.org