SMEs in the spotlight for £15m manufacturing fund
9 May 2016
Innovate UK has launched a £15 million competition to encourage “revolutionary” technologies and processes designed to boost the UK’s manufacturing sector.
The agency, which is tasked with driving disruptive innovation in the UK, said it would fund innovative projects that supported new technologies or production processes across a range of manufacturing sectors.
To qualify, all projects must involve at least one SME, and those led by a SME will be "particularly welcomed", according to Innovate UK.
This £15m competition is a milestone in our approach to support large and small companies as well as researchers to get their ideas off the drawing board
Jo Johnson, minister of universities and science
The competition seeks projects that address challenges in manufacturing systems, technology, processes or business models – for example in process engineering, industrial biotechnology, coatings and textiles, or new product introduction processes.
Innovation in materials development, properties, integration or reuse – such as energy generation and storage, electronics/sensors, or for operation in demanding environments - will also be considered.
“The UK is a global leader in many areas of specialist manufacturing, and we are committed to supporting industry to grow, develop innovative ideas and boost productivity,” said Jo Johnson, minister of universities and science.
“This £15m competition is a milestone in our approach to support large and small companies as well as researchers to get their ideas off the drawing board.”
The competition opened on 9 May and will close on 13 July.
