How to win Innovate UK grant funding

Hello!

In the world of science and technology, non-dilutive grant funding is a critical element that can make or break a project.

One of the most coveted sources of funding in the UK is Innovate UK, the UK's innovation agency. With its commitment to driving productivity and economic growth by supporting businesses in developing and realising the potential of new ideas, Innovate UK is a goldmine for innovators. So, how do you secure Innovate UK grant funding? Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Understand the Funding Landscape

Before embarking on your application journey, familiarise yourself with the nuances of Innovate UK funding. The agency offers a diverse range of opportunities, each tailored to different stages of innovation, sectors, and sizes of organisation. Understand which specific funding competition aligns with your project and tailor your proposal accordingly.

2. Detail Your Innovation

Innovate UK funds game-changing ideas. Ensure your application articulates your innovation clearly. This is where you showcase your deep understanding of the subject matter and the uniqueness of your project. What problem does your idea solve? How does it differ from existing solutions? Remember, detail is your ally – but maintain the balance between technical jargon and accessible language to cater to reviewers of varying familiarity with your field.

3. Display Balanced Optimism

Your application should convey an air of confidence in the potential of your innovation, demonstrating that you are optimistic about its success. However, remember to balance this optimism with a realistic view of the risks and challenges your project may face. This approach assures assessors of your project's potential while demonstrating a thoughtful, prepared outlook.

4. Be Solution-Oriented

When detailing potential risks or challenges, always pair them with the measures you've planned to mitigate these issues. This shows your forward-thinking, problem-solving mindset, a characteristic that reassures the assessors that you're prepared to handle any situation that may arise in the execution of your project.

5. Demonstrate Impact

Innovate UK aims to stimulate economic growth, so your application should include a strong argument for the economic benefits of your project. Consider job creation, benefits to the industry, potential for commercialisation, and other economic impacts.

6. Collaborate and Network

Innovate UK encourages collaborations. Leverage this by incorporating partners in your project. It could be academic institutions, other businesses, or even end-users of your innovation. Such partnerships can enhance the robustness of your proposal and widen the scope of your project's potential impact.

7. Engage Early and Ask for Feedback

Don't wait until the last minute to engage with Innovate UK. Attend their briefing events, webinars, or workshops related to your competition. You'll glean valuable insights on what the assessors are looking for. Don't forget to ask for feedback on your previous applications if applicable.

8. If In Doubt, Call Tatton Consulting

Frequently recognised as the UK’s No.1 Grants Consultancy, we are the UK leaders in designing and developing award-winning applications for Innovate UK, NIHR, BEIS, DASA and SBRI grant funding. Securing Innovate UK grant funding is not an easy feat, but it's not unattainable. With careful planning, detailed articulation of your ideas, balanced optimism, and a solution-oriented approach, we can help you significantly increase your chances of success, streamline the process and give you the blueprint to successfully apply in the future.

Best of luck in your journey towards securing funding for your innovation!