€100k Dual-Use Tech Challenge Across 10 Critical Domains

On 2nd June 2025, NATO’s Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) unveiled an ambitious set of ten new technology challenges, marking a major expansion of its mission to identify and fast track dual use deep tech across the Alliance. Running until 12:00 UTC on 11th July 2025, this competition offers €100,000 in funding and access to a six month accelerator starting January 2026, with top performers eligible for up to an additional €300,000 in the next programme phase.

What is DIANA?
Established in June 2021 and operational since June 2023, DIANA is NATO’s first innovation accelerator body dedicated to dual use deep technologies, solutions that bridge civilian and military applications. Operating out of regional locations in London, Tallinn, and Halifax, it harnesses a continent wide network of 200+ accelerator sites and test facilities across Europe and North America.

Managed by Professor Deeph Chana, DIANA runs a competitive, multi phase model: public challenge calls → rapid non dilutive grants → a structured Phase 1 accelerator → rigorous down select to Phase 2 → real world testing, adaptation, and adoption by NATO and member states.

It also feeds promising technologies into the €1 billion NATO Innovation Fund, launched in June 2022 to scale dual use deep tech innovation.

The 2025 Challenges
The ten focus areas reflect NATO’s evolving defence and resilience needs:
1. Energy & Power
2. Advanced Communication Technologies
3. Contested Electromagnetic Environments
4. Human Resilience & Biotechnologies
5. Critical Infrastructure & Logistics
6. Operations in Extreme Environments
7. Maritime Operations
8. Resilient Space Operations
9. Autonomy & Unmanned Systems
10. Data Assisted Decision Making

Each challenge invites innovators to address pressing capability gaps, ranging from AI enabled decision tools to resilient comms systems and advanced biotech for personnel.

Support and Selection Process
• Phase 1: €100,000 in contractual funding, six month accelerator, access to test centres, mentor network, and industry end user engagement.
• Phase 2 (down selected): Additional funding, deeper integration, field testing, and potential procurement opportunities.

Since its pilot in 2023, DIANA has supported:
• 44 startups across three challenges (energy resilience, sensing & surveillance, secure information sharing), selected from 1,300+ proposals.
• Over 70 companies awarded for the 2025 accelerator, spread across 20 NATO countries, covering similar deep tech domains.

Past participants include innovators in quantum cryptography, secure messaging, and cyber resilience, such as Hushmesh, Goldilock, and LevelQuantum, which received €100,000 and access to NATO test labs.

Spotlight: The Arctic Innovation Mobilisation
In May 2025, DIANA ran a focused Arctic Innovation Mobilisation (AIM) competition in collaboration with Norway, targeting solutions for extreme cold and remote conditions. Five winners, including US, Norwegian, and Canadian firms, received up to €50,000 each for innovations spanning PNT resilience, power systems, UAS charging, and avalanche safety. The initiative emphasises DIANA’s agility in responding to regional and environmental security demands.

Why It Matters
DIANA represents a significant shift in NATO's approach:
• Breaking the ‘washing machine’ procurement model by focusing on effect based challenges, not preconceived solutions.
• Accelerating impact: swift funding, end user feedback loops, and streamlined adoption pathways.
• Embracing dual use innovation, bridging civilian technology with military needs.
• Leveraging collective scale: regionally rich, multi national, resourced innovation hubs.

These new 2025 challenges reveal NATO’s readiness to tackle next generation threats, whether cyber electromagnetic, space based, environmental, or biologically oriented, through tech-powered resilience.

How to Participate
• Innovators (startups, SMEs, researchers) have until 12:00 UTC, 11th July 2025 to apply via the DIANA website.
• Proposals must clearly address one of the ten challenge areas with strong evidence of novelty, feasibility, dual use potential, and defence alignment.
• No equity is taken; grant-based support ensures innovators retain ownership.

What to Watch For
• Announcement of the 2026 cohort, expected early 2026.
• Success stories from Phase 1 projects that transition to practical adoption.
• NATO’s Innovation Fund investments in standout DIANA participants.
• Continued regional initiatives like AIM, reflecting NATO’s flexibility.

Interested in learning more or applying? Contact RedKnight today.

by Dayne Hodgson

Future Leaders Fellowships Round 10

Driving Research and Innovation Leadership

UKRI Future Leaders Fellowships (FLF) programme is back with Round 10. One of the UK’s most prestigious funding schemes designed to empower the next generation of research and innovation talent. With up to £110 million in grant funding available, this round is set to support outstanding individuals with the vision, drive, and capability to become world-leading leaders in their field.

Applications for Round 10 open on 23rd June 2025 and close at 11:00am on 5th November 2025.

What Is the Future Leaders Fellowship?

The FLF programme provides sustained, flexible support to early-career researchers and innovators working across all sectors. Its overarching aim is to retain, attract, and nurture future talent, providing a springboard for the next wave of high-impact research and commercially significant innovation.

Each fellowship offers up to £3 million in funding over a four-year term, with the option to apply for a further three years of support. Unlike many grants, FLF is open to individuals working in academia, industry, public sector, and charitable organisations alike, encouraging cross-sector mobility and knowledge exchange.

Aims of the Programme

The FLF scheme seeks to:

  • Develop the next wave of high-potential leaders across research and innovation.
  • Foster ambitious, original, and interdisciplinary work that would otherwise be hard to fund through standard routes.
  • Bridge sectors by supporting work that spans academia, business, and public or third sectors.
  • Encourage long-term career development, giving researchers the time and resources to build a robust portfolio.
  • Support mobility, enabling fellows to move between sectors or institutions to maximise impact and career progression.

This combination of financial support and long-term vision positions the FLF as a unique and highly impactful programme within the UK’s innovation funding landscape.

Scope and Thematic Focus

Round 10 continues UKRI’s commitment to supporting transformative work across all disciplines and sectors. However, the guidance outlines several key themes and priorities, encouraging applicants to consider challenges with long-term economic and societal relevance.

The programme encourages proposals that:

  • Advance the UK's net zero goals, particularly through innovations in clean energy, sustainable manufacturing, or environmental resilience.
  • Strengthen national security and resilience, including cybersecurity, advanced materials, or critical infrastructure.
  • Enhance health and wellbeing, especially in areas aligned to NHS priorities, data-driven healthcare, or personalised medicine.
  • Support technological sovereignty, such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, quantum technologies, and photonics.
  • Tackle inclusive growth, aiming to reduce regional inequality or promote diversity in research leadership.

While the programme remains open to all innovative topics, these themes reflect UKRI’s strategic priorities and global challenges where future leadership will be vital.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must be hosted by a UK-based organisation. This includes:

  • Higher education institutions
  • Businesses
  • Catapults and research and technology organisations (RTOs)
  • Charitable organisations
  • Public sector bodies (such as the NHS, government agencies, or local authorities)

You don’t need a PhD, and there’s no restriction on the number of years since your last degree. Instead, UKRI is looking for people who:

  • Have a compelling track record relative to their career stage.
  • Are transitioning to or establishing independence.
  • Are proposing ambitious, original work that goes beyond the norm in their discipline or sector.

Importantly, applicants must not already be established research or innovation leaders (for example, leading a significant grant or commercial R&D portfolio).

Funding Offer

Applicants can request between £100,000 and £3 million in grant funding to cover:

  • Salary (for both the fellow and team members)
  • Research and development costs
  • Equipment and infrastructure
  • Training, mobility, and collaboration activities

All work must be carried out in the UK, with project outputs expected to deliver benefit from or within the UK. Fellows are encouraged to explore secondments, international collaborations, and inter-sector mobility where it enhances impact.

Projects must last a minimum of four years. A further three years of funding may be available via a separate process if significant progress has been demonstrated.

Application Process

There are two application routes:

  • Academic applicants must apply via the UKRI Funding Service.
  • Non-academic applicants (e.g., business or third sector) must apply via the Innovate UK Innovation Funding Service (IFS).

The application consists of a comprehensive proposal, outlining:

  • The originality, feasibility, and strategic value of your proposed programme.
  • How the fellowship will catalyse your progression to research/innovation leadership.
  • Your host organisation’s commitment to supporting your career development.
  • The anticipated impact of your work, whether academic, commercial, or societal.

Applicants will also need to submit a host organisation statement and details of career development support.

Assessment Criteria

Proposals will be assessed by a diverse panel of expert reviewers and interviewers against criteria including:

  • Vision and ambition
  • Leadership potential
  • Methodological rigour
  • Contribution to UKRI’s strategic priorities
  • Host organisation support and career trajectory

As funding is limited, only the most competitive and strategically aligned proposals will be funded.

Supporting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

UKRI is committed to advancing equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) through its funding mechanisms. Applications are encouraged from underrepresented groups, and adjustments will be made where needed to ensure an accessible application process.

Applicants with disabilities or long-term conditions are encouraged to contact Innovate UK at least 15 working days before the closing date to arrange reasonable accommodations.

Why This Fellowship Matters

At a time when the UK is doubling down on science and technology-led growth, the FLF programme stands out as a bold investment in people. It offers individuals the rare opportunity to:

  • Build a long-term, independent career track.
  • Develop multidisciplinary, cross-sector programmes of work.
  • Shape national and global priorities across industry, academia, and public policy.

Whether you are a pioneering engineer developing clean battery tech, a biomedical researcher tackling health inequities, or an entrepreneur driving AI adoption in public services, the FLF can be the vehicle that propels your ideas from concept to impact.

To discuss your project idea in more detail, contact RedKnight today for a free consultation.

by Dayne Hodgson

Accelerating the UK's Future Flight

The UK's aviation sector is embarking on a transformative era, driven by innovations in drones, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, and zero-emission conventional take-off and landing (CTOL) planes. To propel this evolution, Innovate UK, in collaboration with the Department for Transport (DfT), has unveiled two new funding competitions under the Future Flight Challenge: the "Future Flight: Strategic Growth" and the "Future Flight: Regional Demonstrator." These initiatives aim to bridge the gap between groundbreaking trials and real-world commercial operations, fostering sustainable growth and positioning the UK at the forefront of advanced aviation.

Future Flight: Strategic Growth
Objective: This competition seeks to accelerate the development of the UK drone sector by supporting projects that demonstrate progress towards commercialisation or routine Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations. The focus is on building upon current state-of-the-art approaches to create growth and meet the objectives of the DfT's Future of Flight programme.

Key Details

  • Funding Available: Up to £3 million in total, with individual grants ranging between £250,000 and £500,000.
  • Project Duration: Projects must last between six and seven months, commencing on 1st September 2025 and ending by 31st March 2026.
  • Eligibility: Open to UK-registered organisations. Projects must be carried out in the UK and intend to exploit the results from or in the UK.

Project Requirements
Applicants must deliver either:

  1. Tangible Outcomes in New Use Cases: Projects should focus on new use cases previously at a demonstration phase or scaling up existing commercial use cases, with strong end-user involvement.
  2. Developments Supporting Regulatory Policy: Projects should contribute to the regulatory policy concepts or concepts of operation being developed by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to enable Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). Applicants must be willing to share data and outputs with the CAA.

Strategic Focus Areas

Applications are particularly encouraged in areas such as medical delivery, inspection of critical infrastructure, maritime operations, agriculture, and support to frontline public services.

Application Deadline: 11:00am on Wednesday, 11th June 2025.

Future Flight: Regional Demonstrator
Objective: This competition aims to accelerate the transition from trials of cutting-edge innovations to real-world commercial operations at a regional scale. The goal is to unlock high-value, socio-economic benefits for UK communities and align with the objectives of the DfT's Future of Flight programme.

Key Details

  • Funding Available: Up to £600,000 in total, with individual grants ranging between £150,000 and £200,000 to support the development of regional demonstrators.
  • Eligibility: Open to UK-registered organisations. Projects must include at least one local government authority and at least one operator, end-user, or customer.

Project Requirements

Projects must deliver one or more of the following:

  1. Pathway to Commercial Operations: Develop a detailed plan to transform demonstrations into real-world commercial operations at scale within a selected UK geographical area.
  2. Business Case Development: Create a business case for commercial drone, eVTOL, or zero-emission CTOL aircraft services that deliver high-value socio-economic benefits to a selected UK region.
  3. Proof of Concept: Establish a proof of concept or concept of operations for commercial drone, eVTOL, or zero-emission CTOL aircraft services at scale across a selected UK area.
  4. Living Lab or Test Bed Development: Plan for a living lab or test bed representative of the future flight operating ecosystem to accelerate regional-scale regulatory, community, and infrastructure readiness.
  5. Multimodal Transport Integration: Accelerate multimodal transport by integrating drone, eVTOL, or zero-emission CTOL aircraft into regional transport networks or hubs, including airports.
  6. Commercial Development Plan: Develop a commercial plan for drone, eVTOL, or zero-emission CTOL aircraft services in a selected UK area, based on identified commercially viable use cases that meet regional socio-economic needs and customer demand.

Application Deadline: 11:00am on Wednesday, 11th June 2025.

Strategic Implications for the UK's Aviation Sector
These funding competitions represent a concerted effort by the UK government to foster innovation, sustainability, and economic growth within the aviation sector. By supporting projects that bridge the gap between demonstration and commercialisation, the UK aims to:

  • Enhance Regional Connectivity: Facilitate the integration of advanced air mobility solutions into regional transport networks, improving accessibility and reducing travel times.
  • Promote Environmental Sustainability: Encourage the adoption of zero-emission aircraft technologies, contributing to the UK's net-zero carbon emissions targets.
  • Stimulate Economic Growth: Create new market opportunities, jobs, and services, particularly in underserved or remote areas.
  • Strengthen Regulatory Frameworks: Collaborate with regulatory bodies like the CAA to develop policies and standards that ensure the safe and efficient integration of new aviation technologies.

The “Strategic Growth" and "Regional Demonstrator" competitions offer a unique opportunity for innovators, local authorities, and industry stakeholders to contribute to the evolution of the UK's aviation landscape. By participating in these Future Flight initiatives, organisations can play a pivotal role in shaping a more connected, sustainable, and economically vibrant future.

by Dayne Hodgson

Horizon Europe 2025 Work Programme Announced

Driving Europe's Innovation Ambition
The European Commission (EC) has officially launched the Horizon Europe 2025 Work Programme, a major milestone in the EU’s €95.5 billion flagship research and innovation initiative. Covering a critical year within the 2025–2027 strategic cycle, this Work Programme defines Europe's science and innovation priorities, setting a clear path towards tackling global challenges, accelerating the green and digital transitions, and securing Europe's position as a global leader in innovation.

This new Work Programme builds directly upon the Horizon Europe Strategic Plan 2025–2027, which set three overarching strategic orientations: a green transition, a digital transition, and a more resilient, competitive, inclusive, and democratic Europe.

Strategic Priorities for 2025
The 2025 Work Programme supports three interconnected priorities:
1. Green Transition:
o Accelerating progress towards climate neutrality and sustainability.
o Protecting biodiversity and promoting circular economy practices.

2. Digital Transition:
o Strengthening Europe's digital sovereignty and advancing artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, cybersecurity, and next-generation computing.

3. Resilient and Inclusive Society:
o Building economic competitiveness, safeguarding democratic institutions, and promoting inclusivity and social resilience.

This programme focuses on open strategic autonomy and aims to strengthen Europe's technological and industrial leadership, while ensuring that the transitions are socially fair and inclusive.

Funding Overview
In 2025, over €7.2 billion will be invested across Horizon Europe's pillars and thematic clusters. The funding distribution reflects the EU’s commitment to scientific excellence, global competitiveness, and societal impact.

The programme is structured around Horizon Europe's three pillars:
• Pillar I: Excellent Science
o Supports frontier research via the European Research Council (ERC) and the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) for researcher mobility and training.
o Strengthens world-class research infrastructures critical for advanced science.

• Pillar II: Global Challenges and European Industrial Competitiveness
o Funds research under six thematic clusters:

  • Health
  • Culture, Creativity, and Inclusive Society
  • Civil Security for Society
  • Digital, Industry, and Space
  • Climate, Energy, and Mobility
  • Food, Bioeconomy, Natural Resources, Agriculture, and Environment
  • Encourages cross-sector collaboration to tackle complex societal challenges.

• Pillar III: Innovative Europe
o Advances innovation ecosystems, notably through the European Innovation Council (EIC), supporting breakthrough technologies and high-potential companies.
o Strengthens the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT) and regional innovation hubs.
Beyond the three pillars, the programme also includes actions to widen participation and strengthen the European Research Area (ERA), ensuring all member states benefit from scientific progress and innovation.

Green and Climate Focus
In line with the European Green Deal, the 2025 Work Programme reinforces Europe's leadership in environmental innovation:
• 35% of Horizon Europe's total budget is earmarked for climate-related activities.
• A new and notable commitment is that at least 10% of the Horizon Europe budget will now be dedicated specifically to biodiversity-related research.
Topics will address renewable energy systems, zero-emission mobility, climate adaptation, sustainable food systems, and restoration of ecosystems, helping Europe meet its 2030 climate and biodiversity targets.

European Innovation Council 2025 Actions
The European Innovation Council (EIC) plays a pivotal role in the 2025 Work Programme, with over €1.4 billion in funding to accelerate deep tech innovation.

The EIC's three major funding instruments are:
• EIC Pathfinder: Supports early-stage, high-risk research into revolutionary technologies.
• EIC Transition: Bridges the gap between research and market by funding proof-of-concept and prototype development.
• EIC Accelerator: Provides grants and blended finance (grants plus equity investment) to scale up start-ups and SMEs, especially in strategic areas such as health, digital, and clean tech.

The EIC continues to position Europe at the forefront of deep tech entrepreneurship, driving the next generation of global technology champions.

Widening Participation and Strengthening the ERA
The 2025 programme places strong emphasis on inclusivity and geographic balance across Europe. Actions under the Widening Participation and Strengthening the ERA section aim to:
• Boost the research and innovation capacity of less-performing countries (often referred to as “Widening countries”).
• Promote brain circulation and reduce the R&D divide across regions.
• Strengthen gender equality, open science practices, and citizen engagement in research activities.

By creating more equitable opportunities for participation, the EU ensures that excellence is fostered across all regions, not just in traditional innovation hubs.

International Collaboration
Recognising that global challenges require global solutions; the 2025 Work Programme maintains a strong emphasis on international cooperation.

Key initiatives include:
• Targeted collaboration with strategic partner countries and regions, notably Africa, the Western Balkans, and Latin America.
• Specific calls for cooperation in areas like global health, climate action, and resilient food systems.

The EU continues to position Horizon Europe as an open platform for global scientific collaboration, while safeguarding Europe's strategic interests and ethical standards.

Stakeholder Consultation and Co-Design Approach
In shaping the 2025 Work Programme, the EC engaged extensively with stakeholders through a consultation process between April and May 2024. Researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives contributed feedback, ensuring that the programme reflects the needs, expectations, and expertise of Europe's innovation community.

This co-design approach ensures greater relevance, transparency, and impact across funded projects.
For more information about the Horizon Europe work programmes, click here.

by Dayne Hodgson

£5m Funding Available to Advance UK Semiconductor Capabilities

Innovate UK has launched the "Developing Semiconductor Hardware for Critical Technologies" competition, offering up to £5 million to support feasibility studies that explore innovative advancements in semiconductor hardware design and manufacturing. This initiative is a strategic move to enhance the UK's position in critical technology areas by fostering domestic capabilities in semiconductor development.

Strategic Importance

This funding opportunity aligns with the UK's broader strategy to enhance its capabilities in critical technologies, including semiconductors. By investing in feasibility studies that explore innovative hardware design and manufacturing processes, the UK aims to strengthen its position in the global semiconductor market, foster economic growth, and ensure technological sovereignty.

A recent report by Perspective Economics highlights the UK's semiconductor sector, which includes over 200 companies in research, design, and manufacturing that generated £9.6 billion in revenues in 2022. This represents approximately 2% of global semiconductor revenues.

Competition Overview

The primary objective of this competition is to encourage UK-based businesses to investigate the feasibility of novel ideas that could lead to significant advancements in semiconductor hardware. These studies should focus on innovations that have the potential to improve the design and fabrication processes within the UK, thereby contributing to the nation's competitiveness in critical technologies.

Scope and Focus Areas

The competition seeks projects that explore the feasibility of advancements in semiconductor hardware design or fabrication with the potential to impact UK businesses operating in critical technology areas. Specific themes of interest include:

  • Novel semiconductor materials or designs
  • Semiconductor fabrication techniques
  • Manufacturing equipment innovation
  • Multi-technology integration or interfacing
  • Novel packaging materials and techniques
  • Advanced packaging
  • Thermal management
  • Front-end of line processes
  • Back-end of line processes
  • In-line and end-of-line testing
  • Development of Process Design Kits (PDKs)

Projects focusing on the design or fabrication of printed circuit boards (PCBs) or the assembly of end-use systems are not eligible for funding under this competition.

Key Details

Key details of the competition include:

  • Funding Allocation: Up to £5 million in total funding is available.
  • Project Duration: Projects must last up to six months.
  • Project Start and End Dates: Projects should start by 1st September 2025 and end by 28th February 2026.
  • Funding Range per Project: Eligible grant funding requests must be between £75,000 and £300,000.

The competition is designed to support feasibility studies that assess both the technical and commercial viability of proposed innovations. Applicants are expected to identify potential barriers to market adoption and explore opportunities for their technologies within the UK's semiconductor landscape.

Eligibility Criteria

To participate in the competition, applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements:

  • Lead Organisation: Must be a UK-registered business of any size.
  • SME Involvement: The project must involve at least one grant-claiming micro, small, or medium-sized enterprise (SME).
  • Project Work: All funded project work must be carried out in the UK.
  • Exploitation of Results: The results of the project should be intended for exploitation within the UK.

Collaborative projects are encouraged and can include UK-registered businesses, academic institutions, charities, not-for-profit organisations, public sector organisations, and research and technology organisations (RTOs). Each partner organisation must be invited into the Innovation Funding Service (IFS) by the lead to collaborate on a project. Once partners have accepted the invitation, they will be asked to log in or create an account in IFS. They are responsible for entering their own project costs and completing their Project Impact questions in the application.

Funding Details

The competition offers grant funding to cover a portion of eligible project costs, with the percentage varying based on the size of the organisation:

  • Micro or Small Organisations: Up to 70% of eligible project costs.
  • Medium-sized Organisations: Up to 60% of eligible project costs.
  • Large Organisations: Up to 50% of eligible project costs.

Research organisations undertaking non-economic activity as part of the project can share up to 30% of the total eligible project costs. Funding for these organisations is available at 100% of eligible costs for RTOs, charities, not-for-profit organisations, public sector organisations, or research organisations, and at 80% of full economic costs (FEC) for Je-S registered institutions such as academic institutions.

Application Process and Key Dates

Applicants must submit their proposals through the Innovation Funding Service portal. The application process involves providing detailed information about the project, including objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and budget. Key dates for the competition are:

  • Competition Opens: Monday, 14th April 2025
  • Online Briefing Event: Wednesday, 16th April 2025 at 2:00pm
  • Competition Closes: Thursday, 29th May 2025 at 11:00am
  • Applicants Notified: Monday, 30th June 2025
  • Project Start Date: Monday, 1st September 2025

Applicants are encouraged to attend the online briefing event to gain insights into the competition's objectives and application process. Briefing slides will be available for download from the Supporting Information section after the event.

For a free consultation to discuss your project idea, contact RedKnight today.

by Dayne Hodgson

Empowering UK Farmers: Funding for On-Farm Innovation

In April 2025, UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) launched the ADOPT funding initiative under its Farming Innovation Programme. This scheme is designed to support farmer-led, on-farm trials that aim to generate, test, and demonstrate innovative solutions to agricultural challenges. The goal is to provide practical knowledge of new approaches, encouraging widespread adoption across the sector.

Two-Tiered Grant System

ADOPT offers two types of grants to cater to different applicant needs:

  • Support Grant: This grant provides access to professional assistance from industry experts to help develop a Full ADOPT Grant application. It's particularly beneficial for those less familiar with Innovate UK's systems.
  • Full ADOPT Grant: This grant supports collaborative, farmer-led on-farm trials or experiments.

Applicants can choose to apply directly for the Full ADOPT Grant or start with the Support Grant to refine their proposals.

Comprehensive Support for Applicants

To assist applicants, ADOPT has established a Project Facilitator Database through Innovate UK Business Connect. This resource connects applicants with industry experts who can guide them through the application process and help turn ideas into viable funding proposals. Interested individuals can register as facilitators or request a list of registered facilitators for their project ideas.

Additionally, the ADOPT Support Hub, managed by RSK ADAS, serves as the first point of contact for applicants. The Support Hub offers advice on project scope, suitability, and practicalities of on-farm trials. They also assist in forming connections with necessary expertise and partners, promote best practices for on-farm research and development, and facilitate knowledge exchange from funded projects to the broader farming community.

Driving Innovation in Agriculture

The ADOPT initiative represents a significant opportunity for UK farmers, growers, and foresters to lead innovation in agriculture. By supporting practical, on-farm research and fostering collaboration, ADOPT aims to develop solutions that address real-world challenges and promote sustainable farming practices.

For more information and to apply, contact RedKnight today.

by Dayne Hodgson

Innovative Rail Solutions: FOAK 2025 Funding Opportunities

Innovate UK, in partnership with the Department for Transport (DfT), has launched the First of a Kind (FOAK) 2025 competition series under the Contracts for Innovation programme. This initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of innovative solutions within the UK rail industry by addressing critical challenges through targeted funding opportunities. The FOAK 2025 competitions focus on four key themes: Platform Train Interfaces, Personal Safety, Bridge Strikes, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Complex Processes. Organisations are invited to apply for a share of up to £4.7 million, inclusive of VAT, to develop prototypes, conduct field testing, and demonstrate their solutions.

Overview of the FOAK 2025 Competitions

The FOAK Programme is designed to foster collaboration between the government and the rail industry, facilitating the integration of high-maturity innovations into the railway system. By focusing on specific themes, the programme aims to address pressing industry challenges and support suppliers in achieving market readiness.
Each competition theme targets a distinct aspect of railway operations, encouraging applicants to propose solutions that can be seamlessly integrated into existing systems. Projects are expected to start by 1st September 2025 and conclude by 31st March 2026, with durations ranging from three to seven months. The maximum allowable project cost is £200,000, inclusive of VAT.

Competition Themes
1. Platform Train Interface (PTI)
The PTI theme seeks innovative solutions to enhance the interface between train station platforms and trains, focusing on accessibility, safety, and efficiency. Challenges at the PTI are significant, with the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) reporting that incidents in this area account for nearly half of all passenger fatality risks on the mainline railway. Additionally, over one million mobility-related assists involving the PTI were recorded in 2023, highlighting the need for improved solutions.

Applicants are encouraged to develop solutions that are low-cost, minimally disruptive to install, interoperable between different stations and trains, and easy to operate by staff or customers. The goal is to improve the overall process and experience of accessible boarding while maintaining current dwell times.

2. Personal Safety
The Personal Safety theme addresses the need for innovative solutions to enhance the safety of passengers and staff within the railway environment. While specific details are not provided in the available sources, it is understood that this theme focuses on developing technologies and strategies to mitigate risks and improve the overall safety experience in stations, on trains, and in other railway facilities.

3. Bridge Strikes
Bridge strikes, incidents where vehicles collide with railway bridges, pose significant safety risks and operational disruptions. The Bridge Strikes theme seeks solutions to prevent such incidents and mitigate their impact on the railway network. Innovations may include detection systems, warning mechanisms, or structural modifications designed to reduce the frequency and severity of bridge strikes.

4. AI for Complex Processes
The AI for Complex Processes theme focuses on leveraging artificial intelligence to optimize and manage intricate railway operations. This includes applications such as predictive maintenance, scheduling, resource allocation, and other areas where AI can enhance efficiency and decision-making. Solutions should demonstrate the potential to integrate into existing systems and deliver measurable improvements in performance.

Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for the FOAK 2025 competitions, projects must:

  • Start by 1st September 2025 and end by 31st March 2026.
  • Last between three to seven months.
  • Have total costs of no more than £200,000, inclusive of VAT.

Applicants can be organisations of any size and may work alone or with subcontracted skills and expertise from businesses, research organisations, or third-sector groups. Proposals must demonstrate a high maturity level, at Rail Industry Readiness Level (RIRL) 5 or above, indicating readiness for integration into an operational railway environment.

The application process involves detailing how the solution aligns with the chosen theme, the plan for prototype development and testing, and the anticipated benefits to railway stakeholders and customers. A key deliverable is a demonstration event and trial in a representative environment, allowing for effective evaluation and feedback from potential customers and industry representatives.

Funding and Support
The FOAK 2025 competitions offer a total funding budget of up to £4.7 million across the four themes. This funding is provided through procurement contracts, with projects expected to focus on research and development activities, including solution exploration, design, prototyping, and field-testing. Contracts for Innovation competitions involve procurement of R&D services at fair market value and are not subject to subsidy control criteria that typically apply to grant funding.

Innovate UK and the DfT encourage applications from diverse backgrounds and are committed to making the application process accessible to everyone. Support is available for applicants who have a disability or long-term condition and face barriers in applying.

Next Steps

For a free consultation to discuss your project idea, contact RedKnight today.

by Dayne Hodgson

Energy Catalyst: Funding Clean Energy Solutions for Global Impact

Innovate UK has announced the launch of Energy Catalyst Round 11, a funding initiative aimed at accelerating innovations to improve clean energy access in sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and the Indo-Pacific regions. This round is divided into two distinct strands: Early-stage and Mid-stage, each tailored to support projects at different levels of development. Up to £4.5 million is allocated across both stages.

Energy Catalyst Round 11: Early-stage
The Early-stage competition is designed for UK-registered organisations seeking to develop nascent ideas that can transform energy access in the target regions. Projects should focus on creating affordable, reliable, and low-carbon technologies or business models. Key details include:

  • Project Costs: Eligible project costs must range between £50,000 and £300,000.
  • Project Duration: Projects should commence by 1st September 2025 and conclude by 31st August 2026, lasting between 6 to 12 months.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be UK-registered organisations aiming to improve energy access in Official Development Assistance (ODA) eligible countries within the specified regions. The proposed solutions should integrate considerations of gender equality, disability, and social inclusion, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action).

Energy Catalyst Round 11: Mid-stage
The Mid-stage competition caters to UK-registered organisations with more developed projects that are ready to progress towards implementation. Similar to the Early-stage, projects must aim to enhance clean energy access in the target regions. Key aspects include:

  • Project Costs: Eligible project costs should be between £50,000 and £1.5 million.
  • Project Duration: Projects are expected to start by 1st September 2025 and end by 31st March 2027, with durations ranging from 6 to 19 months.
  • Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be UK-registered organisations focusing on delivering innovations for clean energy access in ODA-eligible countries within sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, or the Indo-Pacific regions. Projects should ensure a just and inclusive energy transition by integrating gender equality, disability, and social inclusion considerations.

Application Process and Deadlines
Both competitions are scheduled to open on Wednesday, 12th March 2025, and will close at 11am on Wednesday, 30th April 2025. Prospective applicants are advised to carefully review the specific eligibility criteria and scope for each strand to ensure their proposals align with the competition requirements. Applications must be submitted through the Innovation Funding Service portal before the stated deadline.

Strategic Importance of Energy Catalyst Round 11
The Energy Catalyst programme plays a pivotal role in addressing the global challenge of energy access. By focusing on sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and the Indo-Pacific regions, Innovate UK aims to stimulate the development of innovative solutions that can provide sustainable energy to underserved communities. This initiative not only seeks to improve the quality of life in these regions but also contributes to global efforts in combating climate change by promoting low-carbon technologies.

Integration of Inclusivity in Energy Solutions
A notable emphasis in Round 11 is the integration of gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI) within energy projects. Applicants are encouraged to design solutions that are inclusive, ensuring that the benefits of clean energy reach all segments of society, particularly the marginalised and vulnerable groups. This approach aligns with the broader objectives of the Sustainable Development Goals, fostering equitable and sustainable development.

Next Steps

For a free consultation to discuss your project idea in more detail, contact RedKnight today.

by Dayne Hodgson

EIC Accelerator (Oct '24 Cut-Off) Results Announced

The European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator programmes provides up to €2.5m of grant funding and up to of €15m of equity to support innovative start-ups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) developing groundbreaking technologies and solutions which are at Technology Readiness Level 6 or above.

Overview of the February 2025 Funding Round

In the latest funding round (results announced in February 2025), the EIC Accelerator received a record-breaking 1,211 full applications from start-ups and SMEs for the 3rd October 2024, cut-off. Of these applications, 431 were invited to jury interviews, with 71 companies selected for funding. This selection translates to an overall success rate of approximately 5.9% from Step 2 to the final selection, highlighting the rigorous and competitive nature of the process.

The total funding allocated in this round amounts to €387 million, with an average of €5.45 million per company. The funding types awarded were as follows:

  • Blended Finance (Grant + Equity): 56 companies (78.9%)
  • Equity-Only: 5 companies (7.0%)
  • Grant-Only: 10 companies (14.1%)

The significant emphasis on blended finance indicates the EIC's strategy to combine immediate financial support with long-term investment, ensuring sustained growth and scalability for the selected companies.

Geographical Distribution and UK Participation

The 71 selected companies represent a diverse geographical spread, spanning 16 countries. The top-performing countries in this round include Germany (15 companies), the Netherlands (11 companies), and Sweden (7 companies). Notably, the UK had 5 companies selected, accounting for 7% of the total.

This representation is particularly significant for UK-based entities. Despite the challenges posed by the UK's departure from the European Union, the EIC Accelerator remains accessible to UK applicants, albeit with certain limitations. UK companies are eligible to apply for the "grant-only" scheme, excluding them from equity-based funding components. This adjustment necessitates a strategic approach for UK applicants, focusing on maximizing the potential of grant funding to drive innovation and growth.

Success Rates and Application Process

The EIC Accelerator's selection process is highly competitive, with success rates reflecting the program's rigorous standards:

  • Step 2 Success Rate: 36%
  • Step 3 Success Rate: 16%
  • Overall Success Rate (from Step 2 to Final Selection): 5.9%

These statistics indicate that while the journey from application to selection is challenging, a significant proportion of applicants who advance to Step 2 have a viable chance of securing funding. Understanding and navigating this process effectively is crucial to enhancing their prospects.

Why UK Entities Should Consider Applying

  1. Access to Substantial Funding: The EIC Accelerator offers grants of up to €2.5 million, providing substantial financial support to propel innovative projects. For UK companies, securing such funding can be transformative, enabling the development and scaling of cutting-edge solutions.
  2. Recognition and Credibility: Being selected by the EIC Accelerator not only provides financial backing but also serves as a mark of excellence and credibility. This recognition can open doors to additional funding opportunities, partnerships, and market expansion.
  3. Business Acceleration Services: Beyond funding, the EIC offers Business Acceleration Services, granting access to expertise, corporate partners, investors, and innovation ecosystems. These resources are invaluable for companies aiming to scale and penetrate new markets.
  4. Encouragement of Female Leadership: The EIC actively promotes diversity, with 21% of the selected companies in this round being led by women (as CEO, CSO, or CTO). UK companies with female leadership are particularly encouraged to apply, aligning with the EIC's commitment to fostering inclusive innovation.

Considerations for UK Applicants

While the "grant-only" limitation requires UK applicants to forgo equity funding, this constraint can be strategically navigated:

  • Leveraging National Resources: UK companies can complement EIC grant funding with national programs and private investments. This blended approach can offset the absence of EIC equity funding, ensuring comprehensive financial support.
  • Building Strong Consortia: Collaborating with entities from EU member states can enhance the project's value proposition and align it more closely with EIC priorities, potentially increasing the chances of success.
  • Emphasizing EU Market Integration: Demonstrating a clear strategy for integrating and scaling within the EU market can make applications more compelling, showcasing the potential for broader European impact.

Strategic Areas of Focus

The EIC Accelerator is dedicated to supporting innovative startups and SMEs across a wide array of sectors. While the program is open to all fields of technology, it places a particular emphasis on strategic areas that align with broader EU policies and address pressing societal challenges:

Health and Biotechnology:

  • Medical Technologies: Development of advanced medical devices, diagnostics, and therapeutic solutions.
  • Biopharmaceuticals: Innovations in drug discovery, vaccine development, and personalised medicine.
  • Biotechnology Applications: Projects focusing on bioproducts, biofuels, and bioremediation.

Energy and Environment:

  • Renewable Energy Solutions: Technologies harnessing solar, wind, hydro, and other renewable sources.
  • Energy Storage and Efficiency: Innovations in batteries, supercapacitors, and energy management systems.
  • Environmental Protection: Projects aimed at pollution reduction, waste management, and circular economy initiatives.

Digital and Deep Tech:

  • Artificial Intelligence (AI): Development of AI-driven applications across various industries.
  • Quantum Computing: Advancements in quantum technologies for computing and communication.
  • Cybersecurity: Innovations ensuring data protection and network security.

Advanced Materials and Manufacturing:

  • Nanomaterials: Creation of materials with novel properties for industrial applications.
  • Smart Manufacturing: Integration of IoT and automation in production processes.
  • Construction Technologies: Innovations in building materials and sustainable construction practices.

Agriculture and Food:

  • Sustainable Farming: Technologies promoting precision agriculture and resource-efficient farming.
  • Food Biotechnology: Development of alternative proteins and food products with reduced environmental impact.
  • Aquaculture: Innovations in sustainable fish farming and aquatic ecosystem management.

Space and Mobility:

  • Satellite Technologies: Development of components and systems for space exploration and communication.
  • Advanced Mobility Solutions: Innovations in electric vehicles, autonomous transportation, and smart logistics.
  • Aerospace Engineering: Projects focusing on aircraft design, propulsion systems, and air traffic management.

by Dayne Hodgson

Eureka's 7 Innovation Programmes for UK Businesses

Eureka is an intergovernmental network established to enhance international cooperation in research and development (R&D) across various sectors. For small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in the United Kingdom, Eureka offers seven distinct programmes designed to foster innovation, collaboration, and market expansion. These programmes provide UK organisations with opportunities to engage in international R&D projects, access funding, and connect with global partners.

  1. Eurostars

Eurostars is Eureka's flagship programme aimed at supporting innovative SMEs engaged in R&D activities. The programme facilitates international collaboration by funding transnational projects led by R&D-performing SMEs. To be eligible, a consortium must include at least two independent entities from two different participating countries, with the project led by an innovative SME from a Eurostars country. The project should focus on developing a product, process, or service intended for commercialisation within 36 months. UK participants can receive national funding through Innovate UK, and partners will receive funding through their respective national agencies. Other eligibility criteria can be found here.

  1. Clusters

Eureka Clusters are industry-driven, strategic initiatives that focus on developing technologies crucial for European competitiveness. These long-term programmes involve large companies, SMEs, universities, and research organisations collaborating on R&D projects. Clusters cover various sectors, including information and communication technologies (ICT), energy, and biotechnology. For UK entities, participating in Clusters offers access to a vast network of international partners and potential funding opportunities. The 5 on-going Clusters include CELTIC-NEXT (telecommunications), ITEA (software innovation), and EUROGIA (low-carbon energy technologies), SMART (Advanced manufacturing), and Xecs (Electronics Components and Systems and applications).

  1. Network Projects

Network Projects provide a flexible framework for organisations to collaborate on international R&D initiatives across any technological area. There are no predefined themes, allowing participants to propose projects that align with their strategic interests. UK organisations can initiate or join consortia with partners from Eureka member countries to develop innovative products, processes, or services. Funding and support are accessible through Innovate UK, facilitating the growth and competitiveness of UK businesses in the global market.

  1. Globalstars

Globalstars is a programme that extends Eureka's collaborative framework beyond its member countries by launching calls for projects with specific non-Eureka countries. These targeted calls aim to foster international R&D cooperation and open new markets for participants. UK entities can engage in Globalstars calls to collaborate with partners in countries such as Brazil, India, Japan, and Singapore. This programme provides opportunities to access new technologies, expertise, and funding sources, enhancing the global reach of UK innovations.

  1. Innowwide

Innowwide is designed to support innovative SMEs in assessing the viability of their research or commercial ambitions in international markets. The programme offers grants of €60,000 to conduct Viability Assessment Projects (VAPs), which help SMEs understand market needs, local conditions, and potential barriers in target countries. For UK SMEs, Innowwide provides a pathway to explore and prepare for successful market entry and collaboration in diverse global regions.

  1. Investment Readiness

The Investment Readiness programme connects startups and SMEs with corporate venturing teams and investors. Participants can engage in international missions and corporate activities designed to enhance their investment appeal and facilitate growth. For UK entities, this programme offers opportunities to pitch to potential investors, receive mentorship, and gain insights into scaling businesses internationally. By participating, UK companies can improve their readiness to attract investment and expand their operations in global markets.

  1. Fast Track to the EIC Accelerator

The Fast Track to the European Innovation Council (EIC) Accelerator is a programme that allows innovative SMEs to skip the first step of the EIC Accelerator application process. Participants benefit from expert feedback on their project ideas and have the opportunity to practice live pitches. This streamlined approach accelerates access to substantial EU funding and support. For UK SMEs, participating in this programme can expedite the development and scaling of high-impact innovations, providing a competitive edge in the European market.

For more information on any of the above, or to discuss your project idea, contact RedKnight today.

by Dayne Hodgson