Supports UK academic institutions in commercialising advanced connectivity technology research through a structured accelerator focusing on market validation and value proposition development.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: July 28, 2026 (full application deadline, 11:00am UK time)
Funding Amounts: Up to £800,000 total; individual project costs per application: £5,000–£32,000 (100% funded, max £16,000 per phase, project duration: 4 months)
Summary: Supports UK academic institutions in accelerating commercialisation of advanced connectivity technology ideas via a structured accelerator programme.
Key Information: Only UK registered academic institutions are eligible; funding is strictly for commercialisation activities (not research).
This grant supports UK registered academic institutions to participate in the Advanced Connectivity Technologies Academic Startup Accelerator Programme (ACTASAP), delivered by Innovate UK and funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT). The programme aims to bridge the gap between academic research and commercial viability in advanced connectivity technologies, such as next-generation wireless, optical, and network infrastructure solutions. The pilot consists of a four-month accelerator (Phase 1) split into two stages: value proposition development and market validation. Selected participants may be invited to apply for a subsequent phase focused on proof-of-concept development.