Contracts for Innovation: FOAK26
Supports late-stage prototyping and demonstration of innovative technologies for key challenges in the UK rail sector, focusing on real-world testing across eight industry-defined themes.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: June 24, 2026
Funding Amounts: Up to £4.3 million total; individual projects can request up to £210,000 (inclusive of VAT) for 3–7 months.
Summary: Supports prototyping, field testing, and demonstration of innovative solutions to key rail industry challenges across eight specified themes.
Key Information: Projects must start September 1, 2026 and end by March 31, 2027; open internationally but contracts awarded to a single legal entity.
Description
This funding opportunity, delivered by Innovate UK in partnership with the Department for Transport (DfT), aims to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative solutions that address challenges in the UK rail sector. The competition targets high-maturity technologies (Rail Industry Readiness Level 5 or above) ready for prototyping, field testing, and demonstration in real-world railway environments. Projects must align with one or more of eight industry-defined challenges, ranging from infrastructure resilience and decarbonisation to improving customer experience and operational safety.
