This ICURe Discover programme is open to academics, postgraduate research students and technicians working on projects that meet Innovate UK’s priorities for creative technology (CreaTech), including digital production, platforms and content technologies; with an emphasis on the Frontier Industries: film and TV, video games, music & live performance and, advertising & marketing.

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

The programme includes:

• up to £2,500 support for testing assumptions and market discovery activities
• part-time market discovery from January to March 2027
• two-day in-person training bootcamp with commercialisation experts
• training on how to gather market feedback that indicates the next steps for your research and its potential for commercialisation
• access to the ICURe expert team and proactive connection to the ICURe network of entrepreneurs, investors and funders
• training in commercial viability using tools such as the business model canvas and the value proposition canvas
• options roundabout training and a practice session, followed by a reflective presentation to a panel of experts at the in-person options roundabout
• completing the programme fulfils the prerequisite to apply for ICURe Explore, which offers up to £40,000 support for more extensive market exploration and customer discovery

Past ICURe Discover participants say that having dedicated time to spend understanding what the commercialisation of research means has dramatically changed their perspective on their research, ideas and innovations.

• Applications open: 01/11/2026
• Online information webinar: 17/11/2026 Register
• Applications close: 08/12/2026
• Welcome call: 18/01/2027
• Bootcamp: 19 and 20/01/2027
• Options roundabout: 23/03/2027
• Location: Online
• Delivery partner: The Helix Way

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 to as many applications as possible.

You will need to have engaged with your University Technology Transfer Office (TTO) or equivalent commercialisation contact prior to applying. Please contact us if your university does not have a TTO or IP Manager and we will endeavour to help.