The UK Government has launched a new £16 million fund to boost small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) defence innovation. The Defence Technology Exploitation Programme (DTEP) aims to bring SMEs and large suppliers together to solve defence problems.

What funding is available?

DTEP is delivered by the Defence and Security Accelerator in collaboration with Innovate UK. It offers companies grant funding of up to 50% of a project’s value to a maximum of £500,000 per grant.

Who can apply?

Applications are open to SMEs who are looking to deliver new innovations into the UK defence supply chain. They must:

  • Be based in the UK and plan to deliver their project in the UK.
  • Plan to partner with a UK-registered Higher Tier Supplier at the point of submission and for the duration of the project.
  • Have a project that aligns with one of the Enduring Capability Challenges.
How to apply

The application process has five stages:

  1. Identify: Once you have a defence innovation project in mind, you should speak with your regional DASA Innovation Partner and identify a Higher Tier partner for your application.
  2. Review: You should then complete an outline submission. This will be reviewed by an Industry Project Review Panel, and you will receive feedback and guidance from a DASA Business Relationship Manager.
  3. Pitch: Next, you will need to complete a full submission and present this to the Industry Project Review Panel.
  4. Assessment: The MOD will assess your proposal on its alignment to the Enduring Capability Challenges.
  5. Award: If your project is successful, Innovate UK will award a grant and the project can begin.
More Information

DTEP is open for proposals all year round, with cycles closing at 3-month intervals for the assessment of applications. The first outline proposal cycle will close on 27th October.

View the full competition guidance here or contact us if you would like to discuss a potential application.

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