Innovate UK, in collaboration with Norfolk County Council, Suffolk County Council, Greater Lincolnshire LEP, and the Greater Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, is offering funding for business-led projects in the agri-tech and food technology sectors. The aim is to grow innovation activities within the cluster located in Eastern England. A total of up to £2.5 million is available under this competition, which is part of Innovate UK’s Launchpad programme.
Key Dates and Funding Details
- Competition Opens: Monday, 23 September 2024
- Competition Closes: Wednesday, 6 November 2024 at 11:00 am
Projects can receive grant funding between £25,000 and £100,000, and should focus on innovation within the agri-tech and food technology cluster in Eastern England. The funded projects are expected to both develop during the funding period and sustain their growth beyond it.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility criteria for this funding opportunity include:
- UK-registered businesses are invited to apply.
- Projects must be conducted entirely within the UK and should aim to exploit the results within the UK.
- Eligible projects must have a total funding request between £25,000 and £100,000 and must last between 6 and 12 months.
- All project activities must begin no earlier than 1 April 2025 and end by 30 June 2026.
Applications must align with the specific scope of the competition and businesses are required to submit their application to the correct competition strand.
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Focus Areas and Scope
The competition is split into two strands:
- Agri-tech and Food Technology, Eastern England – Round 2 Minimal Financial Assistance (MFA)
- Agri-tech and Food Technology, Eastern England – Round 3 Collaborative Research and Development (CR&D)
Each strand targets different project types, so it is crucial to choose the appropriate strand for your project proposal. Projects should align with the following areas:
- Innovative Farming Solutions: Projects that involve the application of new technology to improve farming practices, reduce environmental impact, or increase yield.
- Food Technology Advancements: Initiatives that bring innovation to food processing, packaging, or distribution to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
Application Process and Important Considerations
When applying, businesses must ensure their project proposal is detailed, addressing all required criteria. The application must be submitted to the correct strand as transferring between strands is not permitted. Projects that do not meet the specified scope will not be assessed.
- Ensure that the project costs included in the application are eligible according to Innovate UK’s guidelines.
- Projects must begin on the first day of the month, even if this falls on a non-working day.
- A complete Minimal Financial Assistance declaration is required as part of the application process to ensure compliance.
Accessibility and Support
Innovate UK is committed to making the application process accessible to everyone. Support is available for applicants who may need reasonable adjustments due to disability or long-term conditions. It’s recommended to contact Innovate UK at least 15 working days before the competition closes to arrange suitable support.
Conclusion
The funding opportunity represents a significant boost for businesses aiming to innovate within the agri-tech and food technology sectors. With a focus on sustainable growth and innovation, projects that align with the competition’s scope stand to make a substantial impact on the local economy and the broader agri-tech landscape in Eastern England.
For more information and to apply, visit Gov.UK.
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