Innovate UK improves their path to funding: making it easier, faster and more inclusive

Why are we improving our process?

We know that applying for funding can be complicated, especially for those doing it for the first time. The process has often been perceived as hard to navigate, time-consuming, and sometimes frustrating.

This new approach is designed to fix that. By removing unnecessary complexity, improving turnaround times, and tailoring support where it’s needed most, we aim to give more businesses (from every part of the UK) the opportunity to succeed.

The result is a funding system that’s more responsive, inclusive and easier to use, whether you’re a start-up applying for the first time or a business ready to scale.

What is new and how it helps?

We’re introducing four key improvements to make applying for funding simpler, faster and fairer. These changes respond directly to feedback from applicants and partners and are designed to open up access to innovation support across the UK.

1. A simpler application process

Application forms are being redesigned using a tested framework, making them clearer and more focused. The aim is to gather essential information (such as how your idea meets a specific need) without overloading applicants with unnecessary admin. Whether you’re applying for the first time or not, the process should now feel more intuitive and time-efficient.

2. A faster route to a decision

We are working towards a 90-day target from the competition close to the Grant Offer Letter. This faster turnaround helps businesses plan better, access funding sooner, and move forward with confidence. Internally, it also allows for more agile programme delivery.

3. A broader, more diverse group of assessors

The assessor pool is going to be expanded to include a broader range of technical and commercial experts from across the UK. A more diverse panel helps prevent bias, improves decision quality, and ensures promising ideas are recognised wherever they come from.

4. Tailored support, where and when it’s needed

Monitoring is now based on the needs of each project. Some will receive hands-on support in key areas; others will be given more space to deliver. This flexible approach ensures better outcomes and better value for public money.

Making funding more accessible

These changes are designed to improve access, especially for those applying for the first time, or from backgrounds that have been underrepresented in innovation funding to date.

We’ve introduced a set of tools to guide applicants through the process:

• Practical articles and advice on our How We Help page
• Behind-the-scenes videos explaining how assessments and awards work
• A simpler question set that puts emphasis on clarity and relevance
• Support via our innovation experts, for additional guidance

We still expect strong, well-argued applications, but now you won’t even consider a consultant to write one for you.

What success looks like

This isn’t just about improving forms and timelines. Our aim is to use feedback and gradually change how businesses experience Innovate UK.

In the next 6 to 12 months, we would like to see:

• More first-time applicants and broader regional representation
• Better feedback from those going through the process
• Greater advocacy from funded businesses and stakeholders
• Enhance reputation across industry and Government
• A funding system optimised to work at optimal capacity, with more businesses supported

In short: a faster, fairer, more open route to innovation funding.

We’re building this with your help

We’re asking everyone involved (applicants, partners, advisers) to help make the new approach a success.

That means:

• Responding promptly to requests for information
• Being open and transparent about your finances and delivery plans
• Making full use of the resources available
• Giving honest feedback so we can keep improving

Together, we can build a system that works better for everyone.

Tips for applying

One key piece of advice: make sure your application is clearly relevant to the challenge you’re applying for. Relevance (in scope and purpose) is essential. You can read more about 8 essential tips to write a winning Innovate UK Grant application here.

A common pitfall to avoid: Don’t focus only on the technical details or internal benefits. You must show how your idea solves a real problem and delivers value to customers or society.

Ready to apply?

Explore current opportunities on our Opportunities page and get started with tools, articles and expert advice on How We Help.

We’re here to help you take your next step and to make sure great ideas have the best chance to grow!