Emerging Technologies

Emerging Technologies are those technologies that are still largely held by the research base or in recently formed start-up companies. However, these technologies are disruptive and can offer a step-change in efficiency or functionality over existing products. We have a broad remit, with projects involving the quantum sciences, medical technologies, infrastructure and transport; all involving early-stage technologies at a lower than usual TRL.

Emerging Technologies are those technologies that are still largely held by the research base or in recently formed start-up companies. However, these technologies are disruptive and can offer a step-change in efficiency or functionality over existing products. We have a broad remit, with projects involving the quantum sciences, medical technologies, infrastructure and transport; all involving early-stage technologies at a lower than usual TRL.

We work with the innovators – either in business or academia, and those with an eye on future challenges and technologies.

We want to hear from people with ideas that can offer solutions to problems that others think are impossible to solve. We also want to hear from you if you want to think about challenges that are beyond your current roadmap.

Whether you are an innovator with a new concept, or you have an interest in meeting tomorrow’s challenges, we can connect you to people who can help. We can link you with potential end-users, guide you to sources of funding and tell you about technologies that you may not have come across previously.

Our current focus in this area

Quantum-enabled devices present a huge market opportunity for the UK. These technologies could transform a range of sectors including transport, healthcare, infrastructure, ICT, telecommunications and defence.

From bioelectronic medicine that treat chronic diseases, to brain-computer interfaces that help stroke rehabilitation, neurotechnology will play an increasingly important role in meeting some of the challenges of an ageing society.

In the past biomimicry or biomimetics started from simple imitation of natural organisms. Over time, it has evolved through integration and combination with modern science and engineering to help us discover new materials, applications, and alternative ways of production.

Driving innovation in the regulation and development of phage-based technologies for applications across multiple sectors, ensuring the UK maintains its strong stance on tackling antimicrobial resistance and solidifies its position as a world leader in phage research.

Related Opportunities

European Innovation Council: Pathfinder, Transition, and Accelerator 2026

Closing Soon

Opens: 01/01/2026

Closes: 28/10/2026

Funding opportunities worth over €1.4 billion for strategic technologies and scaling up companies, with grants of up to €4m.
More information

Contracts for Innovation: First of a Kind (FOAK) Rail Programme 2026

Opens: 11/05/2026

Closes: 24/06/2026

Organisations can apply for a share of £4.3 million, inclusive of VAT, across eight themes to develop a prototype, conduct field testing, and demonstrate their solution.
More information

Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund Discovery Cycle 6

Opens: 27/05/2026

Closes: 24/06/2026

Organisations can apply for a share of up to £30 million exclusive of VAT, for collaborative Discovery Phase Projects that meet the Innovation Challenges. This funding is from the Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund.
More information

ACTASAP Pilot Phase 1

Opens: 04/06/2026

Closes: 28/07/2026

UK registered academic institutions can apply for up to £32,000 each to take part in ACTASAP, an accelerator to bring academic research to market.
More information

Scaling Supply Chains for Quantum Enabled Sensing and PNT

Opens: 03/06/2026

Closes: 08/07/2026

UK registered organisations can apply for a share of up to £32.8 million for collaborations developing the supply chain for quantum enabled sensing. This funding is from Innovate UK.
More information

Horizon Europe Chips Joint Undertaking 2026

Various closing dates to 31 March 2027
Topics under the CHIPS-JU work programme, with up to €70m available for the largest projects
More information

Our Experts

For general enquiries regarding our Emerging Technologies sector contact us now

Close

Connect with Innovate UK Business Connect

Join Innovate UK Business Connect's mailing list to receive updates on funding opportunities, events and to access Innovate UK Business Connect's deep expertise. Please check your email to confirm your subscription and select your area(s) of interest.