Research Ventures Catalyst

Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) will launch an open call for proposals to pilot new collaborative approaches for performing science in the UK. Register your interest for information on the latest developments and how you can contribute to the design of this open call.

Research Ventures Catalyst, backed by an initial public investment of up to £50 million, will support a small number of new ventures. It will also bring together scientists and experts from different scientific disciplines or with complementary forms of technical expertise to tackle a complex problem in a new way.

A core objective of the programme is to create and stimulate deeper public-private partnerships around a research agenda. Successful proposals will need to attract co-investment from partners in industry, philanthropic organisations or other third sector bodies.

Open call for proposals

Our open call will seek high-level proposals for a new collaborative research venture across any field of science and technology. This opportunity is aimed at scientists, entrepreneurs, and businesses with a bold vision to push their research to the next level through new collaborations and via partnership with philanthropy and the private sector. For example, proposals may be for “proto-institutes” which explore the viability of a new organisational model for performing research in a particular field without the large start-up costs required to establish a full new institute.

The open call is expected to launch in Summer 2023.

Application process: two stages

Stage 1

DSIT will invite initial proposals and bids for “seedcorn” funding to develop full plans for new collaborative research ventures. Applications will be assessed at stage 1, based on criteria which will be fully set out at the launch of the open call.

Stage 2

Successful applicants from stage 1 will receive “seedcorn” funding for the second stage, and with support from DSIT, develop their proposals into more detailed organisational and technical plans. At stage 2, we would expect applicants to secure co-investment from at least one industry, philanthropic or charitable source, or through a consortium of partners.

A final assessment will be made, after which successful proposals will receive substantive funding. We hope to provide funding for the launch of the first new venture from May 2024.

Before you apply: what can you do now if you’re interested in applying

1. Consider what problem you are seeking to solve, and why a new collaborative research venture is an appropriate mechanism

2. Think about what additional expertise or resources would be valuable for you in undertaking your project and consider if it is necessary to build a consortium to strengthen your proposal

3. Sign up here to register your interest in the programme and receive updates.