Innovate UK Smart Grants

Funding for game-changing, commercially viable R&D innovation across any sector.

Key facts

Funding amount: £25,000 – £500,000
Deadline: 30 Sept 2026
Region: UK-wide
Business type: UK businesses, startups & SMEs

Plain English summary

Got a bold R&D idea? Innovate UK will back disruptive projects from £25k to £500k. Open to any sector, but you need to be a UK-registered business and show a clear route to market.

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Funding details

Smart grants support UK businesses developing disruptive ideas with strong market potential and clear commercial plans.

Who this is best for

UK businesses, startups & SMEs
Organisations based in UK-wide
Projects aligned with innovation funding
Teams seeking funding around £25,000 – £500,000

Who should not apply

Individuals applying in a personal capacity (unless explicitly permitted)
Applicants who cannot meet the official eligibility criteria below

Eligibility checklist

Tick what applies to your organisation before applying.

UK-registered companies of any size leading an R&D project lasting 6–18 months.

Official source

Funding body

Innovate UK

Last verified

30 May 2026

View source page Application page

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