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Innovate UK's Proof of Concept funding is designed to bridge the gap between innovative research and its commercial application. This initiative provides critical early-stage support, enabling researchers and innovators to validate and develop their ideas into market-ready products, processes, or services. By reducing the risks associated with premature market entry, the programme aims to foster innovations that can significantly enhance societal well-being and drive economic growth.
This funding opportunity is intended for researchers and academics based at UKRI-eligible research organisations, including universities, research institutes, facilities, and centres. It welcomes applications from all research disciplines, encompassing the full spectrum of the UKRI councils' remits.
The programme is particularly suited for those seeking to advance their research outputs towards commercialisation pathways such as licensing, spinouts, or social ventures.
The Proof of Concept funding supports early-to-mid-stage commercialisation activities that validate and develop concepts arising from research. The fund aims to de-risk the commercialisation process, enabling researchers to refine their innovations to meet specific user needs and market demands. By doing so, it facilitates the journey from academic research to practical applications, ensuring that valuable discoveries can effectively reach and benefit society.
Funding Levels, Rates, and Key Dates
• Individual Grant Range: £100,000 to £250,000
• Funding Rate: UKRI will fund 80% of the full economic cost (FEC) of each project.
• Project Duration: Projects must last between 6 to 12 months
• Project Start Date: All projects must commence by 1 September 2025.
• Mandatory Intention to Submit Deadline: 3rd March 2025, 4:00 pm UK time.
• Full Application Submission Deadline: 29 May 2025, 4:00 pm UK time.
It's imperative to adhere to these deadlines, as late submissions may not be considered.
Eligible Activities
The funding supports a broad range of activities aimed at advancing research outputs towards commercialisation. Examples include:
• Product, Process, or Service Design: Developing designs that meet market or user requirements.
• Prototype Development and Demonstration: Creating and showcasing prototypes to validate functionality and appeal.
• Market and User Research: Identifying and understanding target audiences, users, or markets to inform development and positioning.
• User Testing and Feedback Collection: Engaging with potential users to gather insights and refine offerings.
• Business Model Development: Establishing strategies for financial sustainability and growth.
• Value Chain Analysis: Planning for scaling and distribution to effectively reach the market.
• Intellectual Property (IP) Strategy Development: Formulating plans to protect and manage IP assets.
• Regulatory and Standards Compliance: Ensuring adherence to necessary regulations and standards for market entry.
• Market Validation and Product-Market Fit Confirmation: Conducting studies to confirm the viability and demand for the innovation.
• Technical and Real-World Concept Optimisation: Refining the innovation to enhance performance and applicability in real-world scenarios.
Applicants are encouraged to tailor these activities to their specific project needs, employing both technical and commercial milestones to demonstrate progress towards market readiness.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to engage with their research organisation's technology transfer office, research office, knowledge exchange, innovation or contract office, or equivalent, at the earliest opportunity. This collaboration ensures the necessary support and appropriate management of intellectual property or knowledge assets throughout the application process.
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