Two major Catapult‑backed programmes have opened for applications, offering fully funded support to help UK innovators strengthen commercial readiness, accelerate adoption and prepare for significant growth. Both initiatives present strong opportunities for South West businesses working across transport, construction, infrastructure, digital technology and clean growth, including those developing solutions relevant to the region’s nuclear and advanced engineering landscape.
The first opportunity, funded by Innovate UK, is the Scale-Up Support Programme for companies with market‑ready products in transport, mobility, smart infrastructure, construction technology or urban data. The programme provides tailored coaching, investor engagement and peer learning designed to help businesses build the foundations to scale successfully. It is aimed at organisations that have already demonstrated market traction and are preparing for the next stage of commercial expansion, with technologies typically at TRL 7–9.
Alongside this, Connected Places Catapult, supported by the Infrastructure Industry Innovation Partnership (i3P), has launched the Infrastructure Productivity Scale-Up Programme. This initiative is designed for companies with proven TRL 8+ solutions that can improve productivity across major infrastructure projects. Successful applicants will have the opportunity to engage directly with infrastructure owners and contractors, strengthen their evidence base, understand procurement requirements and demonstrate their technology to potential buyers. The programme also offers financial support towards demonstration activities.
Together, these programmes provide valuable pathways for innovators looking to scale, secure investment and connect with industry decision‑makers. For South West businesses operating across construction optimisation, digital tools, automation, infrastructure efficiency and nuclear‑adjacent markets, they represent timely opportunities to accelerate growth and increase visibility across national programmes.
Applications for the Innovate UK Scale-Up Support Programme close on 11 September 2026, and applications for the Infrastructure Productivity Scale-Up Programme close on 28 September 2026.
Nuclear South West encourages eligible businesses to explore both opportunities and consider applying.