Aviation
Aviation is a key pillar in both the UK’s economic and societal prosperity. It supports growth in our tourism industry, increases trade and business investment, and connects people and places both domestically and internationally.
Aviation
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Today, the UK has the largest aviation network in Europe and the third largest in the world, contributing over £22 billion to the UK economy and underpinning more than 350,000 jobs. In line with increasing demand, the sector is growing rapidly and future aviation systems will need to be more efficient, cleaner and smarter.
To achieve these goals and reach industry targets of net-zero we must utilise improvements in whole fleet efficiency, sustainable aviation fuels, air traffic management and novel technologies. These new and sustainable business models will transform the way we live our lives, enabling travel for all and securing a thriving UK aerospace industry.
Innovate UK Business Connect’s Aviation team connects you with the partners required to accelerate your innovation from idea to solution. Our deep expertise and established networks then help you to position this innovation within the competitive aerospace market, providing guidance and support on appropriate grant competitions and networking opportunities.
We support you in overcoming business challenges with solutions that stretch and inspire beyond areas of expertise you may not have yet considered. As one team working across sectors we provide invaluable industry insight and coverage, embracing new ideas to uncover the best opportunities for you and your ideas.
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Related Opportunities
Zero Emission Flight Demonstrator Round 1
Opens: 16/02/2026 Closes: 01/04/2026
UK registered organisations can apply for a share of a minimum of £8 million for developing zero emission capable flight in the UK, subject to a sufficient number of high quality applications being received. This funding is from DfT.
More Information
Innovate UK Innovation Loans Round 25
Opens: 08/01/2026 Closes: 04/03/2026
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
Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP): 2026 – 2027 Round 1
Opens: 02/02/2026 Closes: 01/04/2026
UK registered academic institutions, RTOs or Catapults can apply for a share of up to £10 million to fund innovation projects with businesses.
More Information
Related Events and Recordings
Thu
13
Nov
2025
Wed
19
Mar
2025
Cross-Sector Battery Showcase - Advancing Innovation Across Industries - 2025
08.30 - 16.30 GMT | Leicester