Funding Available for Projects on Quantum Technologies

Abstract quantum technologies backgroundA new Innovate UK competition aims to advance the commercialisation of quantum technologies in the UK. From Monday 18th January, UK registered businesses can apply for a share of £7 million for feasibility studies or market research projects. This competition is funded through the Quantum Commercialisation programme of the Industrial Strategy Challenge Fund (ISCF).

Scope

In this competition, all proposals must identify a clear market opportunity and an innovative project which exploits it. While Innovate UK plans to fund a portfolio of projects across a variety of technologies, all projects must:

  • Study a commercial opportunity
  • Quantify performance objectives
  • Provide a roadmap of future exploitation
  • Exploit second-generation quantum technologies
  • Address at least one of the following: connectivity, situational awareness, or computing.
Specific Themes

In addition, there are a number of specific themes that your project can focus on, as listed below:

  • Involve consortia that span the supply chain of component suppliers, system integrators, and end user businesses
  • Focus on maximising UK return from the quantum technology research undertaken by the UK academic base
  • Bring significant new investment and businesses into the UK’s growing quantum technologies sector
  • Develop the quantum computing industry sector (hardware, components, simulators, algorithms and software) in the UK.
Eligibility

Projects must have total eligible costs of up to £500,000 for feasibility studies or £50,000 for market research projects. They should last between 12 and 18 months, starting by February 1st 2022 and ending by 31st July 2023. Projects can be single or collaborative but must involve an SME. Furthermore, the lead organisation must:

  • Be a UK registered business of any size
  • Involve an SME
  • Carry out its project work in the UK
  • Intend to exploit the project’s results from or in the UK

You can find more information regarding eligibility, scope, and how to apply on the Innovate UK competition page. Alternatively, if you have any questions, or would like to discuss a potential project with one of our expert bid writers, please get in touch.

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by Jonny O'Rourke