Product Innovation

Turning an idea into a scalable, commercial product is a challenge that faces many entrepreneurs, innovators and SMEs. Developing a new product, new functionality or new customer experience can be difficult and success may not always happen. 97% of hardware startups fail (compared with 70% of tech start-ups).

The UK has world class University research and an outstanding track record when it comes to funding early stage research and innovation. We recognise that by turning more great ideas into products could have significant advantages for our economy and society.

In addition to the usual challenges associated with innovation, start-ups with products that require manufacturing face some additional hurdles such as:

  • A diverse range of skills and experience
  • A dependence on relationships across the supply chain, with designers, contractors and third parties
  • The up-front scale of investment required is significant. Risks must be well managed and the business case compelling.

Having awareness of the key challenges and a strong network  are fundamental to success. We can help you find the right people to complement your skills and experience, forge the right connections and act as a critical friend to challenge your thinking through the design to manufacture journey.

To start your journey, read our Navigating The Design to Manufacture Guide.

Related Opportunities

Global Incubator Programme: Singapore – Advanced Manufacturing 2025

Opens: 05/12/2024   Closes: 20/01/2025

Innovate UK invites companies with expertise in Advanced Manufacturing to participate in a Global Incubator Programme in Singapore.

More Information

Horizon Europe Brokerage Visits 2025

Various closing dates

Up to 15 UK registered organisations (including corporate companies, small businesses and universities can apply) in hydrogen and battery technologies and smart manufacturing will be selected to join Horizon Europe Brokerage visits to Italy, Germany and Spain.

More Information

Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP): 2024 to 2025 Round 5

Opens: 09/12/2024   Closes: 12/02/2025

UK registered academic institutions, RTOs or Catapults can apply for a share of up to £9m to fund innovation projects with businesses or not for profits.

More Information

Related Events and Recordings

Wed
19
Feb
2025

Materials and Manufacturing Showcase

08.30 - 19.30 GMT | London and Online

Register for this event
Fri
5
Jun
2020

Accelerating Hardware Innovation with HAX mentor Alan Clayton

11.30 - 12.30 | Online

Watch Now
See all events

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