The NIHR Invention for Innovation (i4i) programme will launch the fifth round of its Connect Awards on 17th August 2021. This round will have two funding streams: 1) Connect awards and 2) Children and Young People’s Mental Health Awards.
i4i Connect provides funding for SMEs developing medical devices, in vitro diagnostics and digital health technologies which have a clear patient benefit and are intended for NHS use. The funding is to help companies reach the next stage in the development pathway. This will enable them to apply for further funding, such as the i4i Product Development Award.
Eligibility Criteria
- Projects must be led by an SME
- The lead applicant must be based in England
- The project value must be between £50,000 and £150,000
- Projects must last 6-12 months
- Applicants need to demonstrate evidence of proof-of-concept
- Projects should address a clearly defined unmet clinical need
- The project must start between 1st January 2021 and 1st March 2021
Application Process
i4i Connect has a two-stage application process:
- Stage 1 – Expression of Interest
- Stage 2 – Business Plan and video pitch
Firstly, applicants must submit an Expression of Interest form by 14th September 2021. Applicants will be notified of their submission outcome in October and, if successful, they can proceed to Stage 2.
Stage 2 requires applicants to submit a business plan with a maximum of 15 pages and a 3-minute video pitch by 2nd November. This will be reviewed by the i4i Connect Selection Committee, and applicants will be notified of their submission outcome later in November.
More Information
You can find more information in the competition document. If you are looking for bid writing support and would like to arrange a free consultation with a member of our team, get in touch today.
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