What is the grant available for?
Innovate UK (IUK) has launched the Create Growth Programme Competition 4, allocating up to £8 million to support high-growth creative businesses in selected regions of England. The programme is designed to help businesses scale, build investor networks and explore innovation projects.
Businesses must demonstrate an ambition for growth and belong to the creative industries, focusing on sectors such as advertising, architecture, design, film, television, gaming, music and publishing.
Any eligibility criteria
Eligible applicants must be UK-registered micro, small or medium-sized enterprises operating in one of the 12 designated Create Growth Programme regions:
- Greater Manchester
- Norfolk, Suffolk and Cambridgeshire
- North East of England
- West of England and Cornwall
- South East Coast
- Leicestershire, Derbyshire and Greater Lincolnshire
- Nottingham and Nottinghamshire
- Hull and East Yorkshire
- West Midlands
- West Yorkshire
- Devon
- Hertfordshire
Any required delivery targets / outcome required
Applications must outline a clear growth opportunity, the proposed innovation project and engagement with regional support from the programme. Funding can be used for initiatives that support business expansion and innovation.
What grant amounts are available?
The competition consists of two strands. The first is for small projects with costs of between £20,000 and £50,000, which are fully funded. The second is for larger projects with costs between £50,000 and £200,000, requiring match funding. The level of grant depends on the business size.
Who provides the grant?
Innovate UK
How to apply for the grant?
Click here to apply.
Additional information
Closing Date: 29/05/2025
