Materials
The Materials Team at Innovate UK Business Connect covers a broad scope of the materials life cycle, from feedstock, processing techniques, design and manufacture, testing, standardisation, resource efficiency and circularity.
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We have strong engagement with the entire value chain, from academic researchers, materials developers through to end-users who make products from these materials and businesses who manage end-of-product life issues. We add value in making the connections that matter.
Materials underpin many applications in our economy. Innovative materials science, engineering and technologies make direct and positive impact on economic growth, the environment and quality of life, through improved processes and products, throughout their lifecycle. The impact of materials is forecast to be even greater as businesses respond to the growing trend in electrification of transport, the drive towards net zero emissions and a comprehensive digital economy.
As a team, we work with industry to make sure that new developments in materials find a useful home to improve the UK economy, environment and quality of life. We bring together the materials supply chain to accelerate innovation, improve productivity and ensure resilience in meeting the needs of original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and end users.

Our current focus in this area
Related Opportunities
Global Business Innovation Programme - Critical Minerals and Materials, Canada
Opens: 17/09/2025 Closes: 07/10/2025
Innovate UK is inviting ambitious innovative companies to participate in its Global Business Innovation Programme (GBIP).
More Information
European Space Agency: Space for Monitoring Hazardous Materials
Proposals reviewed from 9/6/25, early submission advised. Deadline extended to 9/10/25
ESA seeks innovative space-enabled applications for hazardous materials management, with up to €75k available per project.
More Information
Innovate UK Innovation Loans Round 23
Opens: 04/09/2025 Closes: 22/10/2025
UK registered businesses can apply for loans for close to market innovative projects with strong commercial potential. They must significantly improve the UK economy and drive societal benefit.
More Information
Related Events and Recordings
Wed
1
Oct
2025
Materials & Manufacturing Show and Tell Series, autumn 2025
12.00 - 13.00 | Online
Register for this event
Wed
30
Jul
2025
Wed
19
Feb
2025
Our Experts
Related programmes

Metamaterials Landscape Map
Connecting the value chain of the UK Metamaterials community with industry, research expertise and business support to drive commercialisation.

Net Zero Chemicals Landscape
Connecting the UK’s growing Chemicals community with industrial collaborators, research-base expertise, investment opportunities and funders.

Circular Critical Materials Supply Chains
This £15 million programme will support the development of resilient UK based supply chains for rare earth elements, with a focus on primary (mine to magnet) and secondary (End of Life to magnet) supply chains.