Ministry of Defence logo
Defence Innovation Loans

Defence Innovation Loans/27 — Next

Funds companies with strong defense applications through development loans and advisory support for advanced innovation.

OpenMinistry of DefenceUnited Kingdom

Defence Innovation Loans are below-market concessional loans delivered jointly by UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) and Innovate UK Loans Ltd for UK SMEs commercialising mature defence innovations. The loan instrument charges 3.7% per annum during the project period (no capital repayments) and 7.4% per annum during the subsequent repayment period, covering up to 100% of eligible project costs. Individu

Any innovation at TRL 6 or above with a strong defence application, targeting commercialisation within the loan period, open to UK SMEs across all relevant technology domains.

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

Sign up free to see the funding breakdown

Sign up free to see the industries in scope

Sign up free to see the full eligibility

Sign up free to see how to apply

Sign up free to see what you submit

Sign up free to see the timeline

Sign up free to see where teams trip up

Last verified: 29 Jun 2026Source: www.gov.uk