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Venture Capital and R&D Investment: Mapping the UK Innovation Landscape

Launching a tech-driven or R&D-focused business in the UK is no small feat. Between refining your product, attracting talent, and securing investment, founders are constantly juggling priorities. In this high-stakes environment, understanding how venture capital and R&D investment intersect is essential for maximising growth and minimising dilution.

Many startups naturally gravitate towards venture capital (VC) funding, which offers rapid access to capital, enabling businesses to scale through hiring or infrastructure development. Yet, an exclusive focus on VC can overlook the strategic benefits of combining it with R&D tax incentives and government-backed innovation schemes.

 

Understanding Venture Capital in the Innovation Lifecycle

Venture capital plays a critical role in supporting startups from early-stage seed or angel investment through to later funding rounds such as Series A, B, and C. These funding stages provide growth runway but come with expectations. VCs demand consistent updates, evidence of progress, and clear reporting on how capital is being deployed.

For startups, this creates a time-sensitive environment where showing measurable returns on R&D investment becomes a key part of unlocking future capital. Venture capitalists are, after all, answerable to their own backers and need a compelling case for continued funding.

However, it is important not to view VC as the only route to financial sustainability. At FI Group, we support clients through a blend of R&D Tax Credits, grant funding, and innovation loans, each offering distinct advantages depending on a company’s size, stage, and sector. These funding streams can work in parallel, enhancing credibility with VCs while also preserving equity.

 

Leveraging R&D Tax Incentives to Complement VC Funding

One of the greatest advantages of claiming R&D Tax Credits is the ability to raise non-dilutive funding. Unlike venture capital, R&D tax relief allows you to reinvest in your innovation without giving up shares or negotiating valuations.

While HMRC has introduced more scrutiny into R&D tax claims, resulting in post-claim compliance checks, this should not discourage innovative businesses. It simply underscores the value of working with a specialist like FI Group. Our consultants ensure claims are robust, compliant, and defensible, maximising your return while minimising risk.

For startups already engaging with venture capital, a successful R&D tax claim can act as a bridge between funding rounds. In periods of slow investor response or seasonal funding gaps, such as the expected VC application backlog this autumn, a timely claim can extend your runway and improve your negotiating position.

 

Current Trends in the UK’s VC and R&D Investment Landscape

UK Venture Capital Investment (2024)

• Total VC Investment: £16.5 billion, a decline from the 2021 peak of £28.6 billion, returning to levels similar to 2019 and 2020.

• Deal Volume: 5,256 companies secured external funding in 2024, down from 6,885 in 2023 and 7,890 in 2021.

• Sector Highlights: Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital health, and life sciences experienced growth, with notable investments such as £822 million in Wayve, backed by SoftBank, Nvidia, and Microsoft. 

 

UK R&D Tax Relief (Tax Year 2022–2023)

• Total R&D Expenditure: £46.7 billion, a 4% increase from the previous year.

• Total Support Claimed: £7.5 billion through both the SME and RDEC schemes, a 1% increase from the prior year.

• Number of Claims: 65,690 claims were made, a 21% decrease from the previous year, partly due to the introduction of the Additional Information Form (AIF) requirement.

• Top Claiming Sectors: Information & Communication (25%), Manufacturing (24%), and Professional, Scientific & Technical (17%) sectors accounted for the majority of claims.

 

Beyond Cash: The Strategic Value of R&D Funding

R&D Tax Credits do more than inject cash. They signal operational maturity. Companies that reinvest tax relief into hiring, product development, or IP generation not only accelerate growth but also increase their valuation in future VC rounds. This also enhances their eligibility for grant programmes, which can further support international expansion or commercialisation.

At FI Group, our grant consultancy includes innovation roadmapping, aligning your funding strategy with open grant calls and long-term IP development. This level of foresight builds investor confidence and can be integrated directly into pitch decks, showing a clear path to revenue and exit.

 

Comparing VC Priorities with R&D Tax Trends

It is worth noting that venture capital investment and R&D tax claims do not always align by sector. In 2021, the most VC-backed UK sectors were Fintech, Health, and Energy. Meanwhile, HMRC’s highest R&D payouts went to Scientific & Technical Services, Manufacturing, and Information & Communications.

This disconnect is not necessarily negative. It reflects differing priorities. VCs chase high-return industries with scalable potential, while HMRC focuses on sectors driving national innovation. Both approaches are valid, but understanding their differences can help founders target the right funding source for their business model.

Whether you are seeking equity investment or leveraging government schemes, your industry focus will influence which doors open most readily.

 

Conclusion: Building a Blended Funding Strategy

The UK remains a top-tier destination for innovation thanks to a thriving venture capital ecosystem and a supportive R&D investment framework. While VC can accelerate growth, pairing it with strategic R&D funding offers a more sustainable and less dilutive path forward.

For startups and scaleups, aligning these two funding streams can not only improve cash flow but also enhance valuation, IP development, and investor trust. As VC and R&D landscapes continue to evolve, the smartest companies will be those that master both.

Claiming R&D tax relief is a crucial financial boost for innovative businesses in the UK. However, with the introduction of the Advanced Notification Form (ANF), companies must now be more proactive to secure their claims. In this blog, we will guide you through everything you need to know about the ANF, from eligibility and submission to expert insights and future developments.

Introduction to the ANF (Advanced Notification Form)

What is the Advanced Notification Form (ANF)?

The Advanced Notification Form (ANF) is a new requirement introduced by HMRC to streamline and monitor R&D tax relief claims. It acts as an early declaration of a company’s intention to claim R&D tax relief for a particular accounting period. Essentially, it is a formal notification that alerts HMRC to expect a claim.

Why is the ANF important for businesses seeking R&D tax relief?

The ANF ensures transparency and helps HMRC manage claims more efficiently. For businesses, submitting the ANF is now critical because, without it, they risk losing eligibility for R&D tax relief altogether, particularly if they are making a claim for the first time or have not claimed in recent years.

Eligibility and Requirements

Who needs to submit the ANF?

If you’re planning to claim R&D tax relief or expenditure credit for accounting periods beginning on or after 1 April 2023, you must submit a claim notification form if:

• you’re claiming for the first time
• your last claim was made more than 3 years before the last date of the ‘claim notification period’ — use the guidance on this page to work out if this applies to you

If your company has been consistently claiming R&D tax relief without gaps, you might not need to submit an ANF. However, if unsure, it is always best to confirm.

What are the eligibility criteria for submitting the ANF?

To be eligible, your company must:

• Be carrying out qualifying R&D activities.
• Intend to make a claim for the accounting period covered by the ANF.
• Submit the ANF within six months after the end of the accounting period in which the R&D activity commenced.

Are there any deadlines for submitting the ANF?

Yes. The ANF must be submitted within six months of the end of the accounting period when the R&D activity began. Missing this deadline will mean you cannot claim R&D tax relief for that period.

Submission Process

How can businesses submit the ANF to HMRC?

Businesses must complete and submit the ANF electronically through HMRC’s online portal. Paper forms are not accepted.

What information is required to complete the ANF?

You will need:

• Company details (name, UTR, contact information).
• Details of the accounting period.
• A summary of the R&D activities, including key projects.
• The industry sector in which the R&D is being carried out.
• Contact details for the main R&D project lead.

Are there any common mistakes to avoid when filling out the ANF?

Common pitfalls include:

• Submitting the form after the six-month deadline.
• Providing vague or insufficient descriptions of the R&D activities.
• Using incorrect accounting periods.
• Failing to include accurate contact information.

Attention to detail is crucial to avoid delays or rejections.

Benefits of Submitting the ANF

What are the benefits of submitting the ANF for R&D tax relief?

Submitting the ANF ensures your company is eligible to claim R&D tax relief. It also demonstrates a level of organisation and professionalism that HMRC values, potentially leading to a smoother review process.

How does submitting the ANF impact a company’s tax relief claims?

Failure to submit the ANF when required means your company will be barred from claiming R&D tax relief for the accounting period in question. Correct and timely submission safeguards your ability to benefit from generous tax relief opportunities.

Expert Insights

Are there any tips from professionals on how to ensure a smooth submission process?

• Prepare early: Gather your R&D project details during the accounting year, not afterwards.
• Seek professional advice: Tax consultants specialising in R&D relief such as FI Group can streamline the process.
• Set reminders: Ensure you do not miss the six-month submission deadline.

FAQs and Troubleshooting

What are some frequently asked questions about the ANF?

Q: Can I edit my ANF after submission?

A: No, you cannot edit a submitted form. Ensure all details are accurate before submission.

Q: What if I submit the ANF late?

A: You will not be able to claim R&D tax relief for that period.

Q: Is an ANF needed every year?

A: No, only if you are a first-time claimant or have not claimed in the last three accounting periods.

How can businesses troubleshoot issues they encounter during the submission process?

• Contact HMRC’s support team early if technical issues arise.
• Ensure you use up-to-date browsers and systems when accessing the online portal.
• Maintain a full copy of the submitted form for your records.

Future Developments

Are there any upcoming changes to the ANF or R&D tax relief regulations?

The UK government has signalled ongoing reforms to R&D tax credits, including closer scrutiny of claims and efforts to combat fraud. While no immediate changes to the ANF process have been announced, businesses should stay vigilant as updates can happen quickly.

How can businesses stay updated on these changes?

• Subscribe to HMRC’s email updates.
• Follow industry news via reputable tax advisory firms.
• Maintain regular contact with an R&D tax specialist.

Closing thoughts

The ANF is now an essential step for many companies wishing to benefit from R&D tax relief. Being proactive, thorough, and timely will ensure your company can access the support it needs to innovate and grow. If you are uncertain about the process, professional advice is highly recommended to avoid costly mistakes.

The EIC Transition grant, part of the European Innovation Council’s Horizon Europe programme, offers substantial funding to support the maturation and validation of novel technologies. This grant is designed to help SMEs, start-ups, and research organisations bring their innovations from the lab to the market. With up to €2.5 million available per project, the EIC Transition grant is a golden opportunity for innovators to scale their technologies and develop sustainable business models.

Key Information Table

Funding Body	European Innovation Council (EIC)
Total Grant Funding Pot	€98 million
Amount Each Project Can Be Awarded	Up to €2.5 million
Grant Themes	Technology validation, business development, market readiness
Eligibility Criteria	SMEs, start-ups, spin-offs, research organisations, universities
Open Date	22 April 2025
Close Date	17 September 2025

EIC Transition Grant Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the EIC Transition grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• SMEs, start-ups, spin-offs, research organisations, or universities.
• Projects must build on results from eligible EU-funded projects.
• Technology must be at least at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3.
• Proposals must include a mix of technology development and business development activities.

The EIC Transition grant is specifically designed to support projects that have already demonstrated proof of concept and are ready to move towards market readiness. This means that the technology must have completed all elements of TRL 3 and be ready for further development and validation in relevant application environments.

Project Focus

The EIC Transition grant focuses on:

• Maturing and validating novel technologies: Projects should aim to develop and validate their technology beyond the experimental proof of principle in the laboratory. This includes prototyping, formulation, models, user testing, and other validation tests.
• Developing sustainable business plans and models: Applicants must explore and develop a viable business plan and business model towards commercialisation in high potential markets.
• Enhancing market readiness and commercial potential: Activities should include market research, value proposition refinement, intellectual property protection, and addressing regulatory, certification, and standardisation aspects.

Value of the Technology Provided by the Fund

The EIC Transition grant offers significant value to funded projects:

• Supports technology development from TRL 3 to TRL 6, ensuring that the technology is ready for market deployment.
• Provides up to €2.5 million in non-dilutive funding, allowing innovators to focus on development without worrying about equity dilution.
• Offers additional booster grants of up to €50,000 for complementary activities to explore potential pathways to commercialisation.
• Access to Business Acceleration Services (BAS) including coaching, mentoring, and global partnerships, which can help innovators navigate the commercialisation process and connect with potential investors and partners.

EIC Transition Grant Application Process

The application process for the EIC Transition grant includes the following steps:

1. Submit proposals via the Funding & Tenders Portal before the deadline of 17 September 2025.
2. Proposals are evaluated by EIC expert evaluators based on criteria such as technological breakthrough, impact, and quality of implementation.
3. Successful proposals are invited for an interview with the EIC Jury, where applicants pitch their project and answer questions about their proposal.
4. Final funding decisions are made based on the interview, and successful applicants can expect their grant agreement to be signed within six months from the call deadline.

Funding Information

• Total indicative budget: €98 million.
• Grant amount: €0.5 million to €2.5 million per project.
• Funding rate: 100% of eligible costs, covered as a lump sum.
• Eligible costs include all necessary expenses for the implementation of the project, determined during the evaluation process.

Additional Information

Projects funded by the EIC Transition grant must include specific milestones and KPIs to track progress towards market readiness. Proposals must demonstrate a credible pathway to market, including plans for intellectual property protection and addressing regulatory and certification requirements.

EIC Transition Grant Programme Background

The EIC Transition grant is part of the Horizon Europe programme, which aims to support high-potential innovations across various fields of science and technology. The grant focuses on both technology and business development to ensure that projects are ready for market deployment.

See a previous winner of the EIC Grant here.

Project Requirements

Projects funded by the EIC Transition grant must:

• Include technology development and validation activities: This involves further development of the technology achieved in a previous project and validation in relevant application environments.
• Involve market research and business model validation: Applicants must refine their value proposition, business plan, and business model to increase chances of commercial success.
• Address regulatory and certification requirements: Projects must consider aspects of regulation, certification, and standardisation to ensure market readiness.

How FI Group Can Help with the Innovation Funder Grants Service

FI Group offers comprehensive support for applicants, including:

• Assistance with proposal writing and submission: Our experts can help you craft a compelling proposal that meets all eligibility and evaluation criteria.
• Guidance on meeting eligibility and evaluation criteria: We provide detailed advice on how to ensure your project aligns with the requirements of the EIC Transition grant.
• Support with project management and reporting: FI Group can assist with managing your project and ensuring all reporting requirements are met.
• Access to a network of experts and partners: We connect you with a wide range of professionals who can provide additional support and guidance throughout your project.

 

Unlocking Innovation: National Space Innovation Programme – Call 2 Grant Funding

The UK Space Agency’s National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) – Call 2 is now open for applications. This prestigious grant funding competition aims to support groundbreaking space technologies, applications, and services, driving innovation and commercialisation in the UK space sector. With a total funding pot of £17 million, NSIP Call 2 offers substantial financial support to de-risk high-reward projects and catalyse investment into the UK’s space industry.

NSIP Key Information Table

Funding Body	UK Space Agency
Total Grant Funding Pot	£17 million
Amount Each Project Can Be Awarded	£150,000 to £2,000,000
Grant Themes	Space Domain Awareness, In-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing, Space Data for Earth Applications, Position, Navigation and Timing, Satellite Communication Technology
Eligibility Criteria	UK-based organisations, including businesses, universities, and research organisations
Open Date	23 April 2025
Close Date	8 May 2025 (Outline Proposal), 23 July 2025 (Full Proposal)

To apply for this grant with our expert grants writing service, contact our team using the button below.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for NSIP Call 2, applicants must be UK-based organisations, including businesses, universities, and research organisations. Projects must have a clear space use-case and demonstrate national benefit. Non-domestic partners can participate but must bring their own funding.

National Space Innovation Programme – Project Focus

NSIP Call 2 seeks proposals for innovative space technologies, applications, and services. Projects should align with one or more of the following themes:

• Space Domain Awareness: Enhancing the ability to detect, track, and identify objects in space.
• In-Orbit Servicing, Assembly and Manufacturing: Developing technologies for the maintenance, assembly, and manufacturing of spacecraft in orbit.
• Space Data for Earth Applications: Utilising satellite data to benefit UK citizens and grow the economy.
• Position, Navigation and Timing: Improving the accuracy and reliability of positioning, navigation, and timing services.
• Satellite Communication Technology: Advancing communication technologies to enhance connectivity and data transmission.

Value of the Technology Provided by the Fund

The NSIP Call 2 grants aim to:

• Raise Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs): Support projects that advance TRLs, bringing technologies closer to market readiness.
• Support Commercialisation and Growth: Help projects transition from research to commercial success, driving economic growth.
• Catalyse Investment into the UK Space Sector: Attract additional investment and funding, multiplying the impact of the grants.
• Enhance UK Space Capabilities: Strengthen the UK’s position in the global space market by developing cutting-edge technologies.

National Space Innovation Programme Application Process

The application process for NSIP Call 2 involves two stages:

1. Outline Proposal: Submit by 8 May 2025. This initial stage requires a brief description of the project, its alignment with the call’s strategic goals, and the team involved.
2. Full Proposal: Invited applicants submit by 23 July 2025. This stage involves a detailed project plan, including technical feasibility, innovation, and potential impact.

Funding Information

NSIP Call 2 offers co-funded grants ranging from £150,000 to £2,000,000 per project. The funding is provided on a cost recovery basis, with payments made upon successful delivery of milestones. Projects can be funded under two strands:

• Kick Starter Projects: Early-stage innovations with TRLs 1-4, focusing on highly disruptive or novel proposals.
• Major Projects: Advanced projects with TRLs 5-9, emphasising commercialisation and investment catalysis.

Additional Information

Successful projects are expected to kick off by 10 November 2025 and conclude by 31 March 2027. Applicants are encouraged to submit an Expression of Interest by 23 April 2025. This helps the UK Space Agency organise the assessment process and allocate resources effectively.

Programme Background

The National Space Innovation Programme (NSIP) aims to make the UK one of the world’s most innovative and attractive space economies. NSIP supports high-reward projects through co-funded grants, driving innovation and commercialisation in the UK space sector. The programme aligns with the National Space Strategy, contributing to the UK’s strategic goals in space technology and applications.

Project Requirements

Projects must:

• Be UK-based with clear national benefit.
• Include regular milestones and deliverables.
• Demonstrate progress towards technical, project, and commercial goals.
• Engage with the NSIP team for due diligence checks and project management.

How FI Group Can Help with the Innovation Funder Grants Service

FI Group offers expert support to navigate the NSIP Call 2 application process. Our services include:

• Application Preparation and Submission: We help you prepare a compelling application that meets all requirements and maximises your chances of success.
• Project Management and Compliance: We assist with project planning, milestone tracking, and compliance with grant conditions.
• Financial Planning and Reporting: We provide guidance on budgeting, financial reporting, and cost recovery to ensure smooth project execution.

Unlock Funding for Cyber Security Innovation with the Cyber Local 2025-2026 Grant

The Cyber Local 2025-2026 Grant Funding Competition, backed by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), offers UK registered organisations a unique opportunity to secure funding for projects aimed at bolstering the cyber security sector and enhancing cyber security skills across various regions. With a total funding pot of £1.8 million, this competition is designed to address geographical disparities and reduce the skills gap in the cyber security industry.

Key Information Table

Funding Body	Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT)
Total Grant Funding Pot	£1.8 million
Amount Each Project Can Be Awarded	£25,000 – £150,000
Grant Themes	Cyber security sector growth, cyber security skills development
Eligibility Criteria	UK registered business, academic institution, research and technology organisation (RTO), charity, not for profit, public sector organisation
Open Date	17 March 2025
Close Date	30 April 2025

Thinking of applying? Using our Innovation Funder App you can assess your project’s suitability. Contact us now for more information.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Cyber Local 2025-2026 grant, your organisation must be UK registered and fall into one of the following categories:

• Business of any size
• Academic institution
• Research and technology organisation (RTO)
• Charity
• Not for profit
• Public sector organisation

Additionally, your project must:

• Have a grant funding request between £25,000 and £150,000
• Last between three and six months
• Be carried out in the UK
• Intend to exploit the results from or in the UK
• Not start before 1 September 2025 and end by 31 March 2026
• Have endorsement from your area steering group

Cyber Local 2025-2026 Project Focus

The Cyber Local 2025-2026 grant aims to support projects that:

• Strengthen the local cyber security sector through area partnerships
• Develop strong and innovative cyber security ecosystems
• Increase opportunities for local people to pursue a career in cyber security
• Upskill underrepresented demographics in the cyber security sector

Value of the Technology Provided by the Fund

The grant funding will enable projects to:

• Develop impactful regional activities and events
• Address geographical disparities in cyber security growth
• Reduce the skills gap in the cyber security sector
• Foster collaboration between industry, public sector, and academia

Cyber Local 2025-2026 Application Process

To apply for the Cyber Local 2025-2026 grant, follow these steps:

1. Submit an Expression of Interest to your local steering group by 14 March 2025.
2. Complete the online application form available on the Innovation Funding Service.
3. Ensure all sections of the application are marked as complete and all partners have accepted the terms and conditions.
4. Submit the application before the competition deadline on 30 April 2025.

Funding Information

The Cyber Local 2025-2026 grant offers up to 100% funding for eligible project costs, with a maximum grant of £150,000. Projects must demonstrate clear impact in the cyber security sector and align with the competition’s themes.

Additional Information

The competition encourages applications that support women into the cyber workforce and initiatives aimed at inspiring young girls to consider a technology career. Projects should complement or build on existing CyberFirst activities and demonstrate collaboration with local organisations or government bodies.

Programme Background

The Cyber Local 2025-2026 grant is part of Innovate UK’s efforts to resolve geographical disparities in the cyber security sector and reduce the skills gap. The programme prioritises projects with a presence in the specified geographical areas and aims to fund a variety of projects across different locations.

Project Requirements Cyber Local 2025-2026

Projects must:

• Be delivered in one of the nine specified geographical areas
• Demonstrate clear impact in the cyber security sector of the region
• Consider scalability and self-sustaining mechanisms
• Collaborate with local organisations or government bodies

How FI Group Can Help with the Innovation Funder Grants Service

FI Group offers expert guidance and support throughout the application process for the Cyber Local 2025-2026 grant. Our team can help you navigate the eligibility criteria, develop a compelling project proposal, and ensure your application meets all requirements.

 

AUKUS Pillar II Innovation Challenge: Empowering Undersea Command, Control, and Communications

On December 1, 2023, Defence Ministers announced the launch of the AUKUS Pillar II Innovation Challenge, focusing on undersea Command, Control, and Communications. This trilateral competition aims to foster ground breaking innovations in autonomous systems, enhancing operational capabilities from seabed to space.

Key Information Table

Funding Body	Advanced Strategic Capabilities Accelerator (ASCA), Defence and Security Accelerator (DASA), Defence Innovation Unit (DIU)
Total Grant Funding Pot	Up to $8 million (US)
Amount Each Project Can Be Awarded	Funding for 3-10 proposals
Grant Themes	Undersea Command, Control, and Communications
Eligibility Criteria	Open to submissions from any nation in Stage 1
Open Date	April 3, 2025
Close Date	April 28, 2025

Eligibility Criteria

• Submit proposals addressing one or more Desired Capability Effects.
• Ensure solutions are interoperable by design, aligning with NATO standards.
• Provide a brief overview of the innovation, including technical merits and costs.
• Be prepared to develop technology to a prototype level and deliver a demonstration.

Project Focus

The AUKUS Pillar II Innovation Challenge is focused on enhancing undersea Command, Control, and Communications. The competition seeks innovations that enable near real-time communications between Undersea Vehicles (UVs) and Command and Control (C2) Systems. It also aims to optimise bandwidth utilisation and effective range in contested environments, provide secure and efficient navigation for Uncrewed Undersea Vehicles (UUVs), and facilitate large data transmission with minimal interception risk.

Value of the Technology

• Enhance synchronisation and teaming of multiple undersea systems.
• Improve operational efficiency and safety in complex maritime environments.
• Support protection of strategic undersea infrastructure.
• Advance capabilities of autonomous platforms for defence tasks.

Application Process

The application process for the AUKUS Pillar II Innovation Challenge involves two stages. In Stage 1, applicants must submit a brief overview of their innovation, including its technical merits and rough order of magnitude costs, by April 28, 2025. Successful Stage 1 applicants will be invited to submit detailed proposals in Stage 2, with a deadline of July 7, 2025.

Funding Information

• Total funding available: Up to $8 million (US).
• Funding for 3-10 proposals.
• Minimum TRL 6 required.
• Project duration: 12 months, starting November 2025.

Additional Information

The AUKUS Pillar II Innovation Challenge is part of a broader effort to leverage autonomous systems for operational advantages from seabed to space. The program seeks to address critical undersea infrastructure protection and enhance the capabilities of autonomous platforms.

Programme Background:

• Autonomous systems provide operational advantages from seabed to space.
• Focus on critical undersea infrastructure protection.
• Enhance capabilities of autonomous platforms.

Project Requirements:

• Address one or more Desired Capability Effects.
• Align with NATO standards for interoperability.

How FI Group Can Help

FI Group offers expert guidance and support throughout the grant application process. Our team ensures compliance with all requirements and maximizes your chances of securing funding. We assist with proposal preparation, technical documentation, and strategic planning to help you succeed in the AUKUS Pillar II Innovation Challenge.

 

New Grant Launching – European Space Agency: Space For a Sustainable Textile Industry

The European Space Agency: Space For a Sustainable Textile Industry grant funding invites proposals for feasibility studies aimed at enhancing transparency, sustainability, and resilience across the cotton value chain and the wider textile industry. This call supports the European Green Deal, the Circular Economy Action Plan, and the Industrial Strategy, which highlight textiles as a priority sector for advancing a carbon-neutral, circular economy.

Key Details

Detail	Information
Funding Organisation	European Space Agency (ESA)
Grant Amount	Up to £200,000
Application Deadline	23 March 2025
Eligibility Criteria	Companies developing space-enabled services and products related to the textile industry; includes the UK

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the European Space Agency: Space For a Sustainable Textile Industry funding, your project must meet the following criteria:

• Open to companies intending to develop space-enabled services and products related to the textile industry.
• Projects should address topics such as water quality impact, environmental impacts of cotton sustainability practices, traceability, ecosystem monitoring, and sustainable textile supply chains.
• Authorisation of Funding letters from National Delegations are required as part of the application.

Project Focus

ESA seeks proposals that leverage space-based solutions to address key challenges in the textile industry. Relevant topics include:

• Impact on Water Quality: Assessing how cotton cultivation affects water resources.
• Environmental Impact Assessment: Evaluating the environmental impacts of different cotton sustainability practices.
• Traceability: Enhancing traceability within the cotton value chain.
• Ecosystem Monitoring: Monitoring the cumulative impact on ecosystems and identifying areas for restoration or conservation.
• Sustainable Supply Chains: Developing sustainable practices within the textile supply chain.

Value of Space

Space-based technologies play a crucial role in addressing these challenges:

• Satellite Navigation (SatNav): Enables geo-tagging services for data collected by IoT sensors, helping to locate pollution sources.
• Satellite Earth Observation (SatEO): Provides geospatial, environmental, weather, and mapping information for diverse applications, enabling decision-making assessments.
• Satellite Telecommunications (SatCom): Offers communication in remote locations without terrestrial networks, enhancing network resilience and robustness.

Application Process

The application process for European Space Agency: Space For a Sustainable Textile Industry has a few steps:

1. Webinar: Attend the ESA webinar on 22 January 2025 at 10am UK time (11am CET) for detailed information.
2. Submit Proposal: Submit your feasibility study proposal by 23 March 2025.
3. Evaluation: Proposals will be evaluated based on their potential to enhance transparency, sustainability, and resilience in the textile industry.

Funding Information for the European Space Agency: Space For a Sustainable Textile Industry grant funding

ESA offers funding and support for business case assessment and the development of new, space-based services. The funding includes:

• Technical & Commercial Guidance: Access to ESA’s expertise and network.
• Zero-Equity Funding: ESA will co-fund 80% of the acceptable cost, up to €200K per awarded study.
• Use of ESA Brand: Leverage the ESA brand for your service.

Additional Information for the European Space Agency: Space For a Sustainable Textile Industry grant funding

Programme Background

The ESA call aligns with the European Green Deal and the Circular Economy Action Plan, which prioritise the textile sector for advancing a carbon-neutral, circular economy. The textile industry is a significant consumer of raw materials and water, and a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. This call aims to mitigate the environmental impact of cotton cultivation and promote sustainable practices.

Project Requirements

At the end of your project, you must:

• Produce a detailed report on the project outcomes, including technical achievements and environmental impacts.
• Share your findings with ESA and relevant stakeholders.
• Demonstrate the potential impact of your project on the textile industry and the environment.

How FI Group Can Help

At FI Group, we specialise in helping businesses navigate the complexities of grant applications. Our innovation funder grants service is designed to guide you through every step of the application process, ensuring that your project stands out and meets all eligibility criteria. With our expertise, you can maximise your chances of securing funding and successfully implementing your space-enabled textile project. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your grant application journey.

 

Eurostars 3 Call 8: Your Guide to the Grant and How FI Group Can Help

Key Details of Eurostars 3 Call 8

Funding Organisation	Eurostars, part of the European Partnership on Innovative SMEs, co-funded by the European Union through Horizon Europe
Grant Amount	Up to €360,000 per project
Application Deadline	13 March 2025, at 14:00 CET
Eligibility Criteria	Innovative SMEs leading a consortium with at least two entities from two different Eurostars countries; project duration up to 36 months
Project Duration	Up to 36 months

Introduction to Eurostars 3 Call 8

Eurostars 3 Call 8 is an exceptional opportunity for innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to secure funding for international collaborative research and development (R&D) projects. This call is part of the European Partnership on Innovative SMEs and is co-funded by the European Union through Horizon Europe. Eurostars supports innovative SMEs and their project partners, including large companies, universities, research organisations, and other types of organisations, by funding international collaborative R&D projects in all fields.

Eurostars 3 Call 8 Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for funding, your project must meet the following criteria:

• The project consortium is led by an innovative SME from a Eurostars country.
• The consortium is composed of at least two entities that are independent of one another.
• The consortium includes entities from at least two Eurostars countries, with at least one organisation coming from an EU or Horizon Europe Associated Country.
• The budget of the SMEs from the participating countries, excluding subcontracting, is 50% or more of the total project cost.
• No single participant or country is responsible for more than 70% of the project budget.
• The project duration is 36 months or less.
• The project has an exclusive focus on civil applications.

Project Focus

Eurostars projects must focus on developing innovative products, processes, or services that can be easily commercialised. The programme encourages collaboration between SMEs and other organisations to leverage expertise and resources, fostering innovation and competitiveness in the global market.

Application Process

The application process for Eurostars 3 Call 8 involves several steps:

1. Define your project idea: Clearly outline the objectives, innovation, and expected outcomes of your project.
2. Collaborate internationally: Form a consortium with partners from at least two different Eurostars countries.
3. Develop your application: Provide detailed information about your project, including technical approach, market potential, and consortium capabilities.
4. Submit your application: Applications must be submitted via the Eurostars project platform by 13 March 2025, at 14:00 CET.

This is where FI Group’s trained grants writers can help formulate a winning proposal helping you to maximise your chances of success in the competition.

Assessment Criteria

Applications will be evaluated by independent experts based on three main criteria:

1. Project quality and innovation: The technical approach, level of innovation, and feasibility of the project.
2. Market and commercialisation: The market potential, commercialisation strategy, and economic impact of the project.
3. Consortium and project management: The capabilities, roles, and collaboration of the consortium partners, as well as the project management plan.

Funding Information

The amount of funding your organisation receives is managed by your national funding body. The maximum funding amount is a grant of up to €360,000 per project

Funding rules vary from country to country, and your national funding body decides:

• Which organisations can receive funding.
• Which project activities can be funded.
• Funding rates.

Organisations from non-Eurostars countries can participate by self-funding their project costs. For specific funding information, contact your national or regional funding body.

Additional Information

National Call Conditions

Each participating country has its own specific conditions and funding rules. It is essential to check the national call conditions relevant to your country to ensure compliance and maximise your chances of securing funding.

Project Requirements

At the end of your project, you must:

• Produce a detailed report on the project outcomes, including technical achievements and commercialisation plans.
• Share your findings with the Eurostars programme and relevant stakeholders.
• Demonstrate the potential impact of your project on the market and society.

How FI Group Can Help

At FI Group, we specialise in helping businesses navigate the complexities of grant applications. Our grants roadmapping service is designed to guide you through every step of the application process, ensuring that your project stands out and meets all eligibility criteria. With our expertise, you can maximise your chances of securing funding and successfully bringing your innovative R&D project to market. Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your grant application journey.