Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund: Innovation Challenges - Discovery, autumn 2026
Organisations can apply for a share of up to £30 million for collaborative Discovery Phase Projects that meet the Innovation Challenges, funded by the Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund.
Key facts
- Funding amount
- Up to £200,000 per project, with a total fund of up to £30 million
- Deadline
- 21 Oct 2026 · 16 days left
- Region
- UK-wide
- Business type
- Innovative businesses & R&D-led teams
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Plain English summary
This funding opportunity, delivered by Innovate UK and Ofgem, offers up to £200,000 for collaborative Discovery Phase projects focused on energy innovation challenges. It targets the earliest stage of innovation to help define problems and value, aiming to accelerate net-zero goals. Although lead applicants must be Ofgem licensed networks, SMEs, startups, and other innovators are strongly encouraged to participate as project partners.
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Who this is best for
- Innovative businesses & R&D-led teams
- Organisations based in UK-wide
- Projects aligned with innovation funding
- Teams seeking funding around Up to £200,000 per project, with a total fund of up to £30 million
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.
- Lead applicants must be an Ofgem licensed gas/electricity network or NESO, working with at least one other organisation.
- Project partners can include start-ups, SMEs, suppliers, academics, and other innovators.
- Projects must request no more than £200,000 and provide a minimum 10% private contribution.
Official source
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