UKRI
Contracts for Innovation: Cyber scale in critical sectors
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The UKRI Contracts for Innovation: Cyber Scale in Critical Sectors programme funds cybersecurity solution development and commercialisation in real end-user environments within critical sector organisations, with budgets up to £3.5M inclusive of VAT. The call is open to organisations of any size in the UK, with awards made to single legal entities (subcontractors permitted but not required). This is a practical, deployment-focused programme suited to SMEs and larger firms ready to move beyond prototype into live sector environments.
Details
| Funder | UKRI |
| Budget | Up to £3.5M inclusive of VAT |
| Consortium | No |
| Eligible countries | GB |
Eligibility & scope
Open to organisations of any size to develop, demonstrate and commercialise cybersecurity solutions in real end-user environments within critical sector organisations. Contracts awarded to a single legal entity only; subcontractors permitted but not required.
Who Should Apply
- •UK-registered organisations of any size (SMEs, scale-ups, larger firms)
- •Cybersecurity product and service developers ready for real-world deployment
- •Teams with defined end-user partnerships within critical sector organisations
- •Organisations prepared to subcontract or operate as sole legal entity (as per funder rules)
Key Dates
- •First listed 6 May 2026, verify exact deadline and application window on UKRI portal
Tips for Applicants
- ✓Critical sector partnerships must be named and credible; vague 'discussion stage' partners weaken proposals.
- ✓Emphasise commercialisation pathway and post-project sustainability, UKRI expects routes to market, not just R&D.
- ✓Single legal entity requirement means consortia must appoint a lead and define subcontractor roles clearly in the budget narrative.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I apply for in the UKRI Cyber Scale contract?
Up to £3.5M inclusive of VAT per contract awarded to a single legal entity.
Can I apply as a consortium or partnership?
No, awards are made to a single legal entity only; you may use subcontractors but must be the lead applicant.
Who is eligible for the UKRI Cyber Scale contract?
UK-registered organisations of any size developing cybersecurity solutions for deployment in critical sector end-user environments.
Do I need an end-user partner to apply?
Yes, the call targets real-world demonstration and commercialisation in critical sectors, so a credible end-user partnership is expected.
Summary generated by AI based on published grant information. Always verify details on the funder's website.
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