Young Innovators

Running from 2018 to 2024, the Young Innovators programme has helped young people turn ideas into businesses and opportunities into impact through funding, mentoring, networking, and expert support.

This programme is now closed. Visit the No Limits platform to continue your innovation journey.

The UK’s next generation of innovators

Young Innovators supported young innovators aged 18-30 who were developing innovative solutions to environmental, societal, and economic challenges across the UK.

The programme helped young people from diverse backgrounds access to funding, business support, expert guidance, and networking opportunities to help turn ideas into real-world impact.

Alongside the awards, the programme built a wider innovation community through events, social media, workshops, and peer support opportunities.

Success stories from young people with game changing ideas

Over the years, Young Innovators awardees have launched businesses tackling real-world challenges across sustainability, health, technology, and social impact. Explore stories from innovators who have grown their ideas through funding, mentoring, and community support.

Explore case studies

Impact

Since launching in 2018, the Young Innovators programme has delivered significant impact for aspiring innovators looking to turn ideas into reality. Following support from the programme, founders have gone on to secure significant follow-on investment, expand their teams, forge major partnerships, and gain international recognition through honours including Forbes 30 Under 30 and the Earthshot Prize.

Young innovators across the UK

250+

Young innovators across the UK

Invested through awards and follow-on funding

£5m

Invested through awards and follow-on funding

Community of young people

12,500

Community of young people

Continue your innovation journey

While the Young Innovators programme is no longer open Innovate UK Business Connect and the No Limits platform continue to provide support, events, opportunities, and resources for innovators across the UK.

Explore the No Limits platform
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