The UKRI Translation: STFC Proof of Concept funding opportunity supports the particle physics, astronomy, and nuclear physics (PPAN) community in developing technology and science towards commercialisation. This grant, funded jointly by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) and Innovate UK, is designed for projects currently operating between Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 5 and 7.

Overview

This opportunity aims to advance technologies and ideas originating from core STFC-funded areas, including particle physics, particle astrophysics, astronomy, nuclear physics, accelerator physics, solar and planetary science, and quantum science. A secondary aim during the award is to further develop products and technology through the TRL scale, working with industry where appropriate. The opportunity is invite-only; applications are accepted only following a successful outline application and an invitation from the funders.

Funding and Benefits

Maximum award: £600,000 (full economic cost)

Funding type: Grant

STFC will fund 80% of the full economic cost (FEC).

Funding available: £240,000 per year for a 24-month duration.

Projects have a fixed start date of 01 April 2027.

Successful applicants and their teams will have the opportunity to participate in the Innovate UK ‘Innovation-to-Commercialisation of University Research’ (ICURe) Programme. During the late-stage commercialisation opportunity, applicants must take part in the initial two programmes: ICURe Engage and ICURe Discover.

Eligibility

Who can apply: Applications are accepted only from those invited following a successful outline application. The project lead must be based at a UK research organisation eligible for STFC funding. Only the lead research organisation can submit an application.

Technology Readiness Level: Projects must be between TRL 5 and 7. The TRL must be stated in the intention to submit and the full proposal.

What will not be funded: Single items of equipment over £138K (excluding VAT) are not permissible. IP costs associated with the grant are not funded. Industry cannot be funded through this award, though collaboration with industry is encouraged.

Application Process

Applications are submitted via the UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) Funding Service. The Joint Electronic Submissions (Je-S) system cannot be used.

Steps to apply:

• Confirm the project lead role.
• Sign in or create a Funding Service account.
• Answer questions directly in the text boxes; save and return as needed.
• Allow time for the research office to check and submit the completed application.

Key documents: A ‘Vision and Approach’ document (maximum 6 sides of A4, single-spaced, 11pt Arial) must be uploaded as a single PDF. The file name should use the unique Funding Service number followed by ‘Vision and Approach’.

Applicants must also provide a summary, core team details, and responses to application questions covering opportunity and market analysis, route to market, intellectual property management, team capability, resources and cost justification, ethics, and strategic value to STFC.

Deadline and Timeline

Publication date: 17 June 2026

Opening date: 17 June 2026, 9:00 AM UK time

Closing date: 26 August 2026, 4:00 PM UK time

Duration: Minimum 24 months, with a fixed start date of 01 April 2027.

STFC must receive the application by the closing date. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Contact Information

Helpdesk: support@funding-service.ukri.org | Phone: 01793 547490

Phone lines are open Monday to Thursday 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, and Friday 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.

For questions on this opportunity: kegroup@stfc.ac.uk

For sensitive information: wendy.carr@stfc.ukri.org

Applicants should contact their research office in the first instance for costings and application support.