International development funding

Lisa Paton

Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, will invest up to £1.5 million to support innovative micro, small or medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to carry out international feasibility studies.

The aim of the competition is to increase the international engagement of innovative UK registered SMEs. It will support them in looking to establish or strengthen international research and innovation partnerships and networks and aid them to grow and scale up.

The purpose of these feasibility studies is to enable businesses to take initial steps in exploring international opportunities to further an innovative idea, through identifying and engaging with overseas businesses, networks and other stakeholders, for example, research organisations, customers and end users.

Your proposal must:

  • demonstrate the development potential of a strong innovative idea
  • explain which country or countries you want to focus on and why
  • explore opportunities from international partnerships and access to new markets through collaboration in research and innovation

Projects must start by 1 January 2022 and end by 31 March 2022 with total eligible project costs expected to be between £15 and £30k.

The competition closes at 11am on 3 September. For full details and to apply, visit the Innovation Funding Service website.