Innovate UK, in partnership with local leaders, is set to revolutionize the business landscape in the United Kingdom. Eight new Launchpads are opening for applications, each catering to specific geographic clusters and offering a plethora of support, networking opportunities, and funding to businesses of all sizes. These Launchpads are part of a broader effort to fuel innovation, foster growth, and scale businesses, all while addressing key challenges that Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) face in their respective clusters.
What are Innovate UK Launchpads?
Net Zero Industry Launchpad (South West Wales)
The Net Zero Industry Launchpad, located in South West Wales, is a haven for sustainable solutions in the field of net-zero industrial emissions. As the world strives for a greener future, this Launchpad offers businesses a platform to innovate and pioneer technologies that reduce carbon footprints and promote eco-friendly industrial practices.
Digital Technologies Launchpad (North East England)
Situated in North East England, the Digital Technologies Launchpad is poised to lead the charge in the application of digital technologies across fast-growing and emerging markets. Businesses in this cluster can expect to find support, funding, and guidance to stay at the forefront of the digital revolution.
Health Technologies Launchpad (West Yorkshire)
In West Yorkshire, the Health Technologies Launchpad is dedicated to pioneering breakthroughs in health technologies, ultimately improving healthcare outcomes. This Launchpad is a vital resource for companies looking to make a difference in the healthcare sector.
Agri-tech and Food Tech Launchpad (Eastern England)
Nestled in Eastern England, the Agri-tech and Food Tech Launchpad is set to revolutionise the way we produce and sustain our food. By driving innovation in food production and sustainability, it aims to transform the agricultural and food sectors.
Marine and Maritime Launchpad (Great South West)
The Great South West region hosts the Marine and Maritime Launchpad, which supports initiatives in marine and maritime industries. By fostering growth and sustainability in this sector, it creates opportunities for businesses to thrive in this unique environment.
Bio-based Manufacturing Launchpad (Scotland)
In Scotland, the Bio-based Manufacturing Launchpad is committed to driving innovation in sustainable production methods. This Launchpad is for businesses seeking to make a significant impact on the environment and promote more eco-friendly manufacturing practices.
Immersive and Creative Industries Launchpad (Coventry and Warwickshire)
The Immersive and Creative Industries Launchpad, centred in Coventry and Warwickshire in the West Midlands, champions groundbreaking technologies for the creative industries and immersive experiences.
Life and Health Sciences Launchpad (Northern Ireland)
Northern Ireland hosts the Life and Health Sciences Launchpad, which is dedicated to the advancement of healthcare solutions and medical breakthroughs. It’s the ideal place for businesses aiming to make a difference in the healthcare landscape.
These Launchpads build on the success of pilot programs in 2022 for the Advanced Manufacturing cluster in Liverpool City Region and the Net Zero cluster in Tees Valley. They are unique, co-developed programs designed in close collaboration with local leadership to address the specific needs of each cluster. By being embedded in the local innovation ecosystem, these Launchpads aim to provide tailored support to businesses, enabling them to flourish.
How do these Launchpads work, and who can apply?
Each Launchpad supports businesses in their innovation projects, fostering collaboration within a supportive ecosystem. The support offered includes funding for research and development, access to innovation specialist support, and opportunities for networking and collaboration. This comprehensive approach enables businesses to develop new products or services and test and validate innovations through Research and Technology Organisations (RTOs).
Moreover, in addition to providing direct support to innovative organizations, each Launchpad aims to stimulate innovation and growth within the local economy. By supporting emerging clusters of innovative businesses and working closely with local leadership, Innovate UK’s goal is to create world-leading and globally connected innovation clusters across the UK.
To be eligible for an Innovate UK Launchpad competition, organizations must be based in the UK and demonstrate strong potential for growth and innovation. They must also be active or growing their work activities within the Launchpad’s cluster and have the potential to support economic growth in the local area.
Competition dates vary depending on the Launchpad:
• Agri-tech and Food Tech in Eastern England: Open from the week commencing 23 October 2023 and closing on 6 December 2023.
• Marine and Maritime in the Great South West: Open from the week commencing 23 October 2023 and closing on 6 December 2023.
• Immersive & Creative, centred on Coventry & Warwickshire: Open from the week commencing 23 October 2023 and closing on 6 December 2023.
• Bio-based Manufacturing in Scotland: Open from the week commencing 30 October 2023 and closing on 13 December 2023.
• Net Zero Industry in South West Wales: Open from the week commencing 30 October 2023 and closing on 13 December 2023.
• Life and Health Sciences in Northern Ireland: Open from the week commencing 30 October 2023 and closing on 13 December 2023.
• Health Technology in West Yorkshire: Open from the week commencing 30 October 2023 and closing on 13 December 2023.
• Digital Technologies in North East England: Open from the week commencing 30 October 2023 and closing on 13 December 2023.
Visit Innovate UK’s funding pages to learn more and start your application today.
