About NAPIC ICURe Discover
Innovate UK ICURe is partnering with the National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC) to deliver an ICURe Discover programme in September 2026, specifically for research projects within the alternative protein sector. Applications from researchers working across the alternative protein space are welcome, including proteins from plants, insects, and microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, algae, precision fermentation, and cell cultured systems as well as hybrids/blends. Projects may relate to food, feed, or ingredient applications.
Applications enabling technologies and solutions that enhance sensory quality, nutrition, and safety; reduce environmental impact; improve production efficiency; or support consumer adoption of alternative proteins, falls under scope of this programme. This may include analytical tools, digital technologies, and innovations across the wider supply chain.
Applications must align with one or more of NAPIC’s Innovation Challenges and Focus Areas. They may be positioned around any of NAPIC’s four interdisciplinary knowledge pillars which together cover the entire value chain of alternative protein supply from production through to consumption. You can read more about NAPIC’s priority areas here.
NAPIC ICURe Discover is an 8-week, part-time hybrid market discovery programme designed to support researchers and technicians in exploring their potential market. The programme aims to enhance market awareness and deepen the understanding of potential technology applications.
Based on the lean start-up methodology, it applies the scientific method to business ideas. Participants will learn how to use this approach to gauge their potential customers’ opinions about their idea, product or service.
Please note it is a pre-requisite to attend ICURe Discover if you wish to apply for ICURe Explore. Full details are given below. If you have any further questions, please direct them to ciaran@thehelixway.com
NAPIC ICURe Discover time commitment
NAPIC ICURe Discover bootcamp will take place on the 29th (in-person) & 30th (online) of September 2026. The programme will end on the 24th November 2026 (in-person) with teams delivering their reflective presentations. You will need to be available for the entire two-day bootcamp and presentation day but can be flexible with the rest of your involvement (75 hours self-study and 5 hours meeting with mentors).
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NAPIC ICURe Discover is open to researchers (including PhD students, research technical professionals, postdoctoral research associates, fellowship and group leader positions) in all UK universities, BBSRC-funded institutes and approved public sector research enterprises.
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- Up to £2,500 support for testing assumptions and market discovery activities
- Part-time market discovery spanning 8 weeks
- Training on how to gather market feedback that indicates the next steps for your research and potential for commercialisation
- Access to our team of experts; we will proactively connect you to our network of entrepreneurs, investors and funders
- Training in commercial viability using tools such as the Value Proposition Canvas
- Develop an understanding of existing market offerings and competitive landscape for your sector
- Give a reflective presentation to our panel of experts and gain further traction for your commercialisation plans
- Opportunity to apply for the ICURe Explore programme and secure up to £35,000 of grant funding to carry out more extensive market exploration and customer discovery
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- Learn how to evaluate the commercial potential of your research
- Build your understanding of routes to market, including licensing and spin-outs
- Gain expert advice from ICURe trainers and sector experts
- Connect with fellow researchers and innovation leaders in your field
This programme is part of Innovate UK ICURe’s wider mission to transform high-potential UK research into spin-outs and license agreements that create real-world impact.
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Applications open: 1 June 2026
Webinar: 2 June 2026
Applications close: 3 September 2026, 23.59
Bootcamp: 29 and 30 September 2026
Location: Hybrid
Delivery partner: The Helix Way -
The online application form will ask a series of questions about you and your research project.
You will need to have engaged with your University Technology Transfer Office (TTO) and your Principal Investigator prior to applying. Please contact us if your university does not have a TTO or IP Manager and we will endeavour to help.
About NAPIC
The National Alternative Protein Innovation Centre (NAPIC) was launched in August 2024 with funding from BBSRC, Innovate UK, and partners across the public and private sectors. NAPIC’s vision is to make alternative proteins mainstream to support a sustainable planet. Working with UK industry, the third sector, and academia, we aim to address the unmet scientific, commercial, technical, and regulatory needs of the alternative protein sector. A key ambition for NAPIC is to support and train the future leaders within the sector, through our Workforce for the Future initiative of which NAPIC ICURe Discover is a key programme. More details including activities, events, funding, can be found on the NAPIC website.
Application support & guidance
For further information please read the Key dates, expectations and guidance document.
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