Innovate UK is inviting applications for funding for projects to support UK businesses to focus on emerging or increasing needs of society and industries during and following COVID-19.

UK registered businesses can apply for a share of up to £20 million to respond to new and urgent needs in UK and global communities during and following the Covid-19 pandemic with a maximum grant of £50k for the project (minimum £25k) which will be paid in advance.

The aim of this competition is to support UK businesses to focus on emerging or increasing needs of society and industries during and following the Covid-19 pandemic. By fast-tracking innovation, the UK will be better placed to maintain employment levels, a competitive position in global markets and make the UK more resilient to similar disruption.

Your application must demonstrate both realistic and significant benefits for society (including communities, families and individuals) or an industry that has been severely impacted and/or permanently disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Your proposal must focus on a clear need and the proposed innovation to address it. You must have the ability to deliver the project during the working restrictions of Covid-19 pandemic.

You can claim 100% of your project costs up to the maximum of £50,000. These will be paid in advance of the project start date.

Although a tight timescale to submit applications, this grant provides a real opportunity to secure funds in advance in these challenging times.

Apply for Innovation Funding here.

Competition opens: Friday 3 April 2020

Competition closes: Friday 17 April 2020 12:00pm

Awards announced: 27^th April 2020

Project Start date: 1^st June 2020 and must complete in 6 months

If you need more information about how to apply email support@innovateuk.ukri.org or call 0300 321 4357 between 9am and 5:30pm, Monday to Friday.