UK Space Agency invites proposals for emerging and innovative tech R&D

Grant funding is available for academia, industry and other not for profit organisations.

The UK Space Agency is inviting proposals for the Enabling Technologies Programme Call Four for emerging and innovative technology research and development.

The Enabling Technologies Programme contributes to the future capability of the UK space sector and research base by providing funding to develop emerging innovative technologies by raising Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) positioning UK space activities closer to commercial or scientific exploitation.

This focus on TRLs is strongly aligned with techUK's vision for a world-leading emerging technologies sector, particularly as the UK strives to secure its status as a global science and technology superpower.

Proposals are sought for projects in areas including:

Innovative technology proof of concept that could result in a significant technological step-change
New technology developments
Establishing new academic/industrial research collaborations and feasibility studies targeting emerging disruptive technologies

This call is an open call with no specific technology theme.

By the end of the project there must be a tangible improvement in the TRL of the technology or a demonstration of advancement in approach (engineering method, technical competence etc) that would enable and support space industry.

Timescales and funding

Awarded Projects may start from November 2023 and must have fully completed within the 12-month project lifetime.

Grant funding per project is expected to range from £100k to £250k per grant. In exceptional circumstances, UK Space Agency reserve the right to adjust the value or duration of the grant funding available.

Applications can be submitted at values within this funding level; however, it should be noted all proposals should clearly demonstrate that they meet the necessary TRL levels (indicated in the link below).

How to apply

Bids are welcomed from a variety of organisations including academia, industry and other not for profit organisations.

The call will close on 10 October 2023 at midday.

You can find more information, including Section 15 under which applications will be assessed, here.

Interested in joining techUK's upcoming STC and PNTC meetings?

techUK / UKspace Satellite Telecommunications Committee (STC): Sign up to the Wednesday 13 September meeting here

techUK / UKspace Positioning, Navigation and Timing Committee (PNTC): Sign up to the Wednesday 20 September meeting here

techUK – Unleashing UK Tech and Innovation

The UK is home to emerging technologies that have the power to revolutionise entire industries. From quantum to semiconductors; from gaming to the New Space Economy, they all have the unique opportunity to help prepare for what comes next.

techUK members lead the development of these technologies. Together we are working with Government and other stakeholders to address tech innovation priorities and build an innovation ecosystem that will benefit people, society, economy and the planet - and unleash the UK as a global leader in tech and innovation.

For more information, or to get in touch, please visit our Innovation Hub and click ‘contact us’.