Local businesses in Penrith and Eden are encouraged to explore a range of new funding opportunities available through Innovate UK Business Connect. These grants and support programmes are designed to help businesses develop innovative products, services, and processes.
Current funding opportunities include:
Open Horizons – Women-led Startups
Women-led startups in deep tech and digital innovation can apply for up to €55,000 in equity-free funding. Applications open on 1st July 2025 and close on 21st August 2025.
Producing Graphite Anodes from Biochar
Innovators are invited to propose solutions for producing high-grade graphite from biochar for Li-ion batteries. Applications open on 7th July 2025 and close on 18th August 2025.
Quantum Business Incubation Centre
Early-stage quantum technology companies can receive support to achieve commercial potential. Applications opened on 9th June 2025 and close on 18th July 2025.
Global Incubator Programme: Canada – Made Smarter Manufacturing
UK-based companies have the opportunity to expand into the Canadian market and collaborate with North America’s largest urban innovation hub. Applications opened on 9th June 2025 and close on 31st August 2025.
ICURe Discover Sprint
An intensive, part-time, online market exploration programme designed to support researchers and technicians in exploring the commercial potential of their ideas. Applications opened on 10th June 2025 and close on 18th August 2025.
High Growth AI Accelerator – Agriculture
This acceleration programme helps businesses access the computation power and expertise needed to validate or develop scalable machine learning and artificial intelligence solutions in the agrifood sector. Applications opened on 9th June 2025 and close on 13th July 2025.
These programmes are open to a variety of sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, digital technology, and more. They offer financial support, expert guidance, and opportunities for collaboration to help businesses bring their innovative ideas to market.
For more information on these and other funding opportunities, visit the Innovate UK Business Connect Opportunities page.