Innovate UK Growth Catalyst for late-stage startups
Grant funding and support to help accelerate business growth
Innovate UK Growth Catalyst is aimed at UK-registered small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with high growth potential, from seed to Series A stage.
It combines Innovate UK grant funding with equity investment from approved investor partners, alongside tailored support from Innovate UK Business Growth, Innovate UK Business Connect and the Catapult network. At least £100 million in grant funding is available, subject to the number and quality of applications.
Funding can support feasibility studies, industrial research or experimental development projects with total project costs typically between £50,000 and £2 million, depending on project type.
Who can apply?
This competition is aimed at UK SMEs at seed or Series A stage, working on innovative projects with strong growth potential in key areas like:
- advanced manufacturing
- clean energy
- digital tech
- defence
- creative industries
- life sciences
The eligibility criteria will depend on your research category.
You must also secure interest from one of Innovate UK's approved investor partners before applying. The investor must submit an expression of interest and confirm they are prepared to lead or catalyse aligned investment into your business.
Support to get investment ready
Innovate UK Business Growth can help you assess your investment readiness, refine your growth strategy and prepare for investor discussions. Innovate UK Business Connect and the Catapults can help you connect with relevant investors and networks in key sectors.
You can use the online Suitability Checker to quickly see if Growth Catalyst is likely to be a good fit for your business before starting an application.
The deadline for applications is 11am on 3 February 2026.
Find out more about the Innovate UK Growth Catalyst - Investor Partnerships Round 2.
First published 14 May 2025