Commercialising Knowledge Assets Fund (CKAF) Winter 2026: Funding Opportunity for UK Research Organisations

The Commercialising Knowledge Assets Fund (CKAF) Winter 2026 competition invites UK registered government research organisations to apply for grants ranging from £50,000 to £250,000. This initiative, managed by Innovate UK on behalf of the Government Office for Technology Transfer (GOTT), aims to support the commercialisation of public sector knowledge assets. The competition opens on 17 September 2026 and closes on 1 December 2026 at 11:00 am UK time. The CKAF aims to facilitate the transition of viable public sector knowledge assets towards commercial readiness. Knowledge assets include intangible assets such as know-how, expertise, intellectual property, and research outputs. This competition seeks to identify and support projects with potential commercial markets, thereby enhancing the economic impact of public sector innovations. The CKAF provides financial support between £50,000 and £250,000 per project. Projects must adhere to specific spending profiles based on their duration, ensuring the efficient use of funds within the stipulated timeframe. The funding is designed to cover 100% of eligible project costs, with no requirement for cost-sharing. Eligible applicants include Public Sector Research Establishments (PSREs), UKRI wholly owned institutes, and other public sector bodies meeting GOTT’s standard eligibility criteria. Applicants must: The fund is technology agnostic and open to applications from all sectors. Projects must focus on moving pre-existing knowledge assets with identified commercial potential towards market readiness. This funding opportunity is crucial for public sector organisations looking to leverage their knowledge assets for commercial success. By providing financial support and encouraging the exploitation of intellectual property, the CKAF aims to drive innovation and economic growth within the UK. For detailed application guidelines, visit the official competition page. Who can apply for the CKAF Winter 2026? UK registered government research organisations, including PSREs and UKRI institutes, are eligible to apply. What is the funding range for projects? Projects can receive grants between £50,000 and £250,000. What are the project duration options? Projects can last for 6, 12, or 18 months, with specific spending profiles for each duration. When is the application deadline? The deadline for applications is 1 December 2026, 11:00 am UK time. Where can I find more information? Visit the official competition page for comprehensive details. Eligible organisations are encouraged to review the official guidelines and prepare their applications promptly. Ensure all eligibility criteria are met and submit your application by the deadline to take advantage of this opportunity to commercialise your knowledge assets.