13/09/2012

Technology Strategy Board to Launch New Innovation Vouchers Scheme (UK)

The Technology Strategy Board’s proposed new Innovation Vouchers scheme is due to launch on 24 September 2012.

The scheme has been set up to help businesses in the agrifood, built environment and space sectors to gain the knowledge required to innovate and grow. The vouchers are designed to link businesses with external experts for the first time by paying towards the cost of their services.

Businesses will be able to obtain help from a range of expert ‘knowledge suppliers’, including universities and further education institutions, research and technology organisations, technical consultancies and IP advisers.

The vouchers will be worth up to £5,000 for businesses operating in the agrifood and built environment sectors. Those operating in the space sector will be able to access vouchers up to the value of £8,000 (in association with the International Space Innovation Centre).

The Technology Strategy Board is interested in any innovative approach to the specific challenges identified by applicants. All types of innovation can be supported, for example, ideas for new or improved products, processes and services, using design to improve ideas or managing intellectual property.

The scheme is open to start-up, micro, small and medium-sized businesses located anywhere in the UK. The business must be operating in one of the aforementioned priority sectors (agrifood, the built environment and space).

Approximately 100 vouchers will be issued once each quarter (with around 400 being issued in the first round opening in September 2012).

Applications may be submitted online at any time following the scheme's launch on 24 September.

Click here for more details (opens in new window).

Source: Technology Strategy Board, 13/09/12

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