BBSRC
UKRI Translation: BBSRC Proof of Concept 2026
Webinar for potential applicants on 19 August 2026; assessment process aims to complete within six months of application receipt
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BBSRC Proof of Concept funds the translation and commercialisation of BBSRC-backed research, supporting researchers based at eligible UK institutions to move discoveries toward market or deployment. Project partners from industry, academia, third sector, or government may co-invest with a minimum 10-50% cost share if they require access to foreground intellectual property. The scheme is assessed on scientific merit, societal and economic impact, and commercial viability.
Details
| Funder | BBSRC |
| Consortium | Optional — project partners (industry, academia, third sector, government, UK or overseas) may contribute cash or in-kind; no minimum partner requirement stated for eligibility |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Formerly known as BBSRC Follow-on Fund. Supports translation and commercialisation of BBSRC-funded research. Applicants must be based at eligible UK research organisations. Project partners seeking access to foreground IP must contribute minimum 10–50% of total project costs. Assessed by BBSRC KETC College on scientific/technical merit, societal and economic impact, and route to market.
Who Should Apply
- •Researchers holding BBSRC grants or managing BBSRC-funded research ready for translation or commercialisation
- •Teams based at eligible UK research institutions
- •Projects with identified commercial or societal routes to market
- •Researchers willing to partner with industry, third sector, or government where partner co-investment is sought
Key Dates
- •Applicant webinar on 19 August 2026
- •Assessment process aims to complete within six months of application receipt
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Lead with the route-to-market narrative: BBSRC assesses commercialisation viability and societal impact, not only the science.
- ✓If you need partner IP access, budget the 10-50% cost share explicitly and secure a signed letter of intent before submission.
- ✓The BBSRC KETC College panel values clarity on market need and competitive position; avoid pure scientific claims without commercial grounding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the BBSRC Proof of Concept scheme?
It funds translation and commercialisation of BBSRC-backed research, helping discoveries move toward market or societal deployment.
Who is eligible for BBSRC Proof of Concept funding?
Researchers based at eligible UK institutions holding or managing BBSRC-funded research ready for translation or commercialisation.
Can I have partners on a BBSRC Proof of Concept project?
Yes, project partners from industry, academia, third sector, or government may contribute cash or in-kind support; if they need foreground IP access, they must co-invest 10-50% of total project costs.
How long does the BBSRC assessment take?
BBSRC aims to complete assessment within six months of your application receipt.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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