Innovate UK has announced a funding opportunity for UK registered organisations in the Agri-tech and food technology sector. Up to £2 million is available for business-led projects aimed at fostering growth in Eastern England's Agri-tech and food technology cluster.
The competition, named Launchpad: Agri-tech and Food Tech in Eastern England, is part of the government's commitment to levelling up opportunities across regions, as outlined in the Levelling Up White Paper.
Businesses applying for funding must be actively involved or expanding their operations in the Agri-tech and food technology innovation cluster in Eastern England.
Projects eligible for funding must focus on:
- Enhancing the productivity of primary crops, bio economy, livestock, aquaculture, or ornamental plants.
- Biotechnologies related to agriculture, food, and nutrition.
- Foods promoting safe, healthy, and nutritious diets.
- Resource-efficient production methods for low emission foods.
Successful projects should contribute to increased investment in research and innovation, fostering business activities, and creating economic impact within the cluster. Proposals must also outline how the team and project will contribute to equality, diversity, and inclusivity (EDI) in the cluster.
Projects can centre around sustainability, animal welfare, nutritional composition, food manufacturing and processing, packaging, safety, pollution reduction, food loss, waste minimisation, and supply chain resilience.
Innovate UK encourages a portfolio approach, seeking a variety of projects across different durations, locations, and themes.
The deadline for applications is Wednesday, December 6, 2023, at 11:00 am.
For more information, please email Paul Humphreys – paul.humphreys@innovateuk.ukri.org
