Through the Transforming Food Production Challenge, SMEs can apply for a share of £5 million to fund projects that will help food production systems achieve net zero. Projects must also align with a Series A investment, which you can read more about here.

All proposals must demonstrate how the project meets the overall aims of the ISCF Transforming Food Production Challenge, which are to:

  1. Help food production systems achieve net zero emissions by 2040.
  2. Help produce food in ways that are more efficient, resilient and sustainable.
  3. Speed up the development and use of integrated precision approaches to improve productivity in agricultural systems.
Scope

This competition will support the development of precision technologies and data-driven solutions. Specifically, projects must focus on one or more of the following themes:

  • the development of precision solutions and systems that will make a significant step towards net zero emissions for food production
  • improving the productivity of the agricultural sector
  • stimulating the establishment of novel high-value production systems
  • developing export opportunities

Funding is only available for experimental development projects. Applicants must demonstrate their ambition to finalise a late-stage innovation, as well as their potential to grow and scale their business through investment.

Eligibility

Firstly, the lead organisation must be a UK registered micro, small or medium-sized enterprise (SME). To be eligible for grant funding, they will need to secure investment of at least twice the grant amount from one of the lead investors associated with the programme.

In addition, projects must fulfil the following criteria:

  • have total eligible costs between £1 million and £3 million
  • last 18 months, starting by 1 August 2022 and ending by 31 January 2023
  • carry out all of its project work in the UK
  • intend to exploit the results from or in the UK
More Information

This competition will open from 18th October until 17th November 2021. For more information, visit the competition page and register to attend KTN’s briefing event on 19th October. If you are looking for bid writing support, contact us to arrange a free consultation.

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