Innovate UK is investing up to £20 million in business projects to develop innovative and ambitious ideas to significantly address the needs of society or industry resulting from the coronavirus outbreak.
Businesses and individuals across the world are facing huge challenges in the face of the coronavirus pandemic.
The requirement to stay at home and to social distance or self-isolate presents new threats to a wide range of businesses and services, from delivery businesses to food manufacturers, entertainment, financial services, healthcare, hospitality, retail, transport and community support.
Business innovation can play a significant role in developing ways to ease the disruption from COVID-19 and any future global disruption.
This fast-track competition was launched on 3rd April and is open to 17th April.
Businesses can attract up to £50,000 as an upfront grant payment to cover the full costs of a project lasting up to 6 months.
Projects with strong potential could attract follow-on funding.
Ideas should aim to help key industries and services disrupted by the pandemic and its aftermath. For example, this could include:
- new platforms and software for music artists to stream live performances, connect remotely to their fan-base and allow global audiences to enjoy their live experience
- new ways for families to connect with and remotely monitor their elderly or vulnerable relatives and ensure they are receiving what they need, including food deliveries, doctor appointments and help to pay bills
- technology to help retailers to better respond better to spikes in customer demand, including to ensure they can deliver country-wide
- new education tools that allow teachers to remotely set tasks that keep the whole class together, support vulnerable children and ensure no-one is left behind
Find out more about applying for Innovate UK funding.
Alternatively – if you wish to discuss your project please call our help line on 0114 263 2632
