STFC (UKRI)
UKRI Translation STFC Proof of Concept
4:00pm UK time. Invitation-only — applicants must have been invited following a successful outline application.
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The UKRI STFC Translation Proof of Concept funds researchers at UK organisations to commercialise early-stage discoveries from STFC-funded physics and astronomy research, with up to £480,000 available over a minimum of 24 months. The call is invitation-only and open only to researchers whose projects originated within particle physics, astrophysics, astronomy, nuclear/accelerator physics, solar/planetary science, or quantum science, at Technology Readiness Level 5-7. Applicants must participate in the Innovate UK ICURe Engage and Discover programmes.
Details
| Funder | STFC (UKRI) |
| Budget | Up to £480k (80% of up to £600k FEC) |
| Deadline | 26 August 2026 |
| Duration | Minimum 24 months (fixed start 1 April 2027) |
| Consortium | No |
| Application | 2-stage: outline application (invitation required) → full proposal by 26 August 2026 |
| TRL | 5-7 |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Open only to invited applicants from UK research organisations whose projects originate from STFC-funded areas (particle physics, astrophysics, astronomy, nuclear/accelerator physics, solar/planetary science, quantum science). TRL 5–7 required. Industry cannot be funded directly but SME collaboration is encouraged. Participants must join Innovate UK ICURe Engage and Discover programmes. No single equipment item over £138k.
Who Should Apply
- •Researchers at UK academic and research organisations with an accepted outline application
- •Projects originating from STFC-funded physics, astronomy, astrophysics, nuclear/accelerator physics, solar/planetary science, or quantum science
- •Researchers ready to advance technology from laboratory (TRL 5) towards prototype and demonstration stage (TRL 7)
- •Teams willing to engage with SME partners and complete Innovate UK ICURe Engage and Discover training
Key Dates
- •Outline application deadline to receive invitation: check STFC site for prior round
- •Full proposal deadline (invitation-only): 26 August 2026 at 4:00pm UK time
- •Minimum 24-month project duration with fixed start date 1 April 2027
Tips for Applicants
- ✓This is a two-stage, invitation-only call: you must submit and win an outline application before you are invited to submit a full proposal. Plan your outline submission well in advance.
- ✓TRL level is gating: reviewers will assess whether your project genuinely sits at TRL 5-7; projects that are too early-stage (TRL <5) or too mature (TRL >7) will not score well.
- ✓SME engagement is expected but industry cannot be directly funded; use the SME as a named collaborator and describe the commercialisation pathway in your proposal narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I get from the STFC Translation Proof of Concept grant?
Up to £480,000 (80% of up to £600,000 full economic cost) for a project of minimum 24 months.
Is the STFC Translation Proof of Concept invitation-only?
Yes, applicants must have been invited following a successful outline application. Full proposals are due 26 August 2026.
What research areas are eligible for the STFC Translation Proof of Concept?
Projects must originate from STFC-funded areas: particle physics, astrophysics, astronomy, nuclear/accelerator physics, solar/planetary science, or quantum science, at TRL 5-7.
Can I include industry partners in the STFC Translation Proof of Concept?
Industry cannot be directly funded, but SME collaboration is encouraged and partners should be named in the proposal.
When does the STFC Translation Proof of Concept project start?
Projects have a fixed start date of 1 April 2027.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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