Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), has launched a new two‑stage competition to support ambitious UK‑registered businesses developing innovative solutions to decarbonise concrete. Up to £11.5 million will be invested across both stages to accelerate innovation, growth, and market adoption in this strategically important sector.
The first stage of the competition will recruit businesses to join a Growth Cohort, providing £50,000 grants (over up to six months) alongside tailored, sector‑specific support to develop robust innovation and growth plans. Successful applicants will work closely with a Cohort Manager and benefit from activities such as peer‑to‑peer networking, investor engagement, and international market exploration.
Businesses selected at Stage 1 will be eligible to apply for Stage 2 funding, which will support the delivery and scaling of ambitious innovation plans. Multiple entry rounds will run between April 2026 and January 2028, with the full Stage 2 competition opening in February 2027.
Competition opens: Monday 20 April 2026
Competition closes: Wednesday 8 July 2026, 11:00am (UK time)