About EPSRC Clean Energy ICURe Discover
EPSRC Clean Energy ICURe Discover is one of the UKRI council pathway programmes running through 2026/27, delivered by Innovate UK ICURe in partnership with the EPSRC Clean Energy theme. The cohort is shaped around the research priorities of the theme, with examples, networks and onward routes tailored to the clean energy community.
This 8-week, part-time online 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. It is focused on innovations in the fields of clean energy.
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.
If you are unsure whether your technology or research fits these sectors, please get in touch icure@setsquared.co.uk.
Please note it is a pre-requisite to attend ICURe Discover if you wish to apply for ICURe Explore.
-
EPSRC Clean Energy ICURe Discover is open to all UK universities and approved public sector research establishments (PSREs) who are working specifically within the fields of clean energy. These areas include, but are not restricted, to carbon capture, usage and storage (CCUS) and greenhouse gas removal (GGR), heat pumps, Hydrogen, nuclear fission, nuclear fusion and wind (onshore, offshore and floating offshore). We accept innovations from any discipline or background within these areas.
We particularly welcome applications from individuals in:
- universities who have not previously participated in the ICURe programme
- universities who do not receive HEIF funding
- under-represented groups including women, people of colour, those living with disabilities, and those from the LGBTQI+ communities
- approved public sector research establishments (PSREs) conducting research within the specified domains
-
The programme includes:
- support to carry out market and customer discovery on a part-time basis over an 8-week period
- 8 half-day workshops, following a pre-course briefing with our team of experts
- flexible online delivery
- hearing from guest speakers, who will share their learning and experiences from their ICURe journeys
- introduction to Strategyzer Business Model Canvas (BMC)
- trainer, mentor, and peer feedback with next steps guidance following your ICURe Discover journey
- up to £2,500 support for market discovery activities
-
ICURe Discover is now a compulsory route into the ICURe Explore Programme. Past participants say that having dedicated time to spend understanding what commercialisation of research means has dramatically changed their perspective on their research, ideas, and innovations. The programme introduces ICURe and provides the space and opportunity to think differently about impact, commercialisation and entrepreneurship.
-
Applications open: 09/11/2026
Applications close: 14/12/2026
Start date: 25/01/2027
Location: Online
Delivery partner: SETsquared Partnership -
The online application form will ask a series of questions about you and your research project.
There is a limited number of spaces on each cohort, but we try to provide support for as many applications as possible.
The application form may be accessed from the links on this website.
Application support & guidance
If you need more information about how to apply, please read our funding support pages. For additional support, reach out to our team of innovation experts who are ready to help you navigate the application process and maximise your chances of success.
Download key dates, expectations and guidance
