R&D Voucher Solutions Catalyst Competition by AberInnovation

The AberInnovation Solutions Catalyst accelerator programme supported by UKRI – BBSRC returns for its fifth round. The programme is designed to accelerate research and development, support knowledge transfer from expert academics, and connect innovative companies to the wider UKRI Campus network. Successful applicants recieve a package of support to include the following:

• Expert academic advice and knowledge transfer
• Access to proof-of-concept and pilot-scale facilities plus technical support at AberInnovation
• Consumables for R&D
• Business growth workshops/support

The Brief

Are you developing a solution that addresses a market need in food & drink, industrial biotechnology, by‑product re‑use, or agri‑tech? Do you have a concept that requires technical testing to demonstrate feasibility? This sis the competition for you!

We encourage applicants who want to be embedded within the AberInnovation environment, making practical, hands‑on use of our labs, equipment, and pilot‑scale facilities to fast‑track technical development and unlock future funding opportunities.

The programme will accelerate progress in R&D by offering companies a voucher worth up to £30,000 to gain supervised access to AberInnovation’s state-of-the-art facilities, capabilities and skills and Aberystwyth University academic expertise for:

• UK companies from the food & drink, biotechnology, circular economy and agri-tech sectors
• Spin-out businesses from IBERS and the wider Aberystwyth University
• AberInnovation tenant and member businesses
• Business alumni of AberInnovation business support programmes

What We’re Looking For

Participants should propose a project that includes:

• Hands‑on use of expertise, facilities, and equipment
• A clear matched contribution of time and resources
• A defined route to market
• Demonstrated innovation, R&D need, and value for money
• Alignment with UK industrial strategy priorities such as, advanced manufacturing, clean growth, future mobility, AI & data, and ageing society 

The subsidy is provided as a voucher (credit) redeemable at AberInnovation. A full overview of available equipment and capabilities for early‑stage research can be found in the facilities brochure in the application pack on the AberInnovation website. Please download and read the full application pack thoroughly.

Find out more and apply on the AberInnovation website before 5pm on 22nd June 2026.

You can see other open funding calls in our Funding Finder.