Apply now for MDI Programme Innovation and Scale-up Hub (UK)

Innovate UK is offering a funding opportunity through the Manufacturing Digitalisation Innovation (MDI) Programme Innovation and Scale-up Hub. This initiative aims to enhance the impact of grant-funded activities in key manufacturing sectors. Up to £4 million is available for UK-registered organizations. The competition opens on 2 October 2026 and closes on 18 November 2026 at 11:00 am UK time. Opportunity at a Glance

- Provider: Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation (UKRI)

- Funding Type: Grant

- Total Funding Pool: Up to £4 million

- Eligible Applicants: UK registered research and technology organizations (RTOs) or academic institutions

- Eligible Countries: United Kingdom

- Project Duration: 36 months (1 April 2027 – 31 March 2030)

- Deadline: 18 November 2026, 11:00 am UK time

About the Opportunity

The MDI Programme Innovation and Scale-up Hub is designed to address common industrial challenges in the Frontier 5 manufacturing sectors: Advanced Materials, Aerospace, Automotive, Batteries, and Space. The program seeks proposals that will establish a hub to collaborate with manufacturers and technology providers, enhancing the commercial impact of digital technology in manufacturing. Funding and Benefits

- Grant Amount: Between £3.8 million and £4 million per project

- Project Costs: Applicants must cover costs exceeding the grant with their own funds

- Funding Limits for Industrial Research:

- Up to 70% of project costs for micro or small organizations - Up to 60% for medium-sized organizations - Up to 50% for large organizations Who Is Eligible?

- Lead Organisation: Must be a UK registered RTO or academic institution

- Collaborators: Can include UK registered businesses, academic institutions, charities, not-for-profits, public sector organizations, or RTOs

- Project Requirements:

- Must be conducted and primarily benefit the UK - Grant agreement approval required before starting - Projects must begin on the first of the month Eligible Activities or Priority Areas - Establishing a hub to enhance digital technology adoption in the targeted manufacturing sectors - Collaborating with high-potential technology providers - Addressing industrial digital technology stack solutions Why This Opportunity Matters This funding opportunity is crucial for advancing the UK’s manufacturing capabilities through digital technology. It supports collaboration between innovative technology providers and manufacturers, driving economic growth and competitive advantage in key sectors. How to Apply

- Prepare Your Proposal: Ensure your project aligns with the competition’s objectives and requirements.

- Register and Sign In: Use the Innovation Funding Service to submit your application.

- Submit Required Documents: Include all necessary project cost details and collaboration explanations.

- Deadline: Submit your application by 18 November 2026, 11:00 am UK time.

Application Tips or Common Mistakes

- Contact Innovate UK: Reach out at least 15 working days before the deadline for accessibility support if needed.

- Project Costs: Only include eligible costs and justify subcontractor choices, particularly if using overseas partners.

- Collaborative Justification: Clearly explain the collaboration’s necessity and structure.

Frequently Asked Questions Who can lead a project? UK registered RTOs or academic institutions can lead. What is the funding range for projects? Projects must request between £3.8 million and £4 million in grant funding. Is there a limit on the number of applications an organization can lead? Yes, an organization can lead only one application but can collaborate on one additional application. What are the deadlines for this funding opportunity? The competition closes on 18 November 2026 at 11:00 am UK time. Can non-UK partners be involved? Yes, non-UK partners can participate but cannot receive funding. Next Steps Eligible organizations should thoroughly review the official guidelines provided by Innovate UK and ensure their applications are complete and compliant. Follow the application process carefully to maximize the chance of success in this competitive funding round. For more information, visit GOV.UK.