CoSTAR Satellite Labs: Accessible creative R&D infrastructure
UK Research and Innovation's CoSTAR Satellite Labs grant funds advanced creative R&D labs to boost tech innovation and collaboration in the UK's screen and performance industries.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: October 29, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to £2,000,000 per Satellite Lab (max two awards); total fund £4,000,000; project duration 3 years
Summary: Funds up to two consortia to establish advanced creative R&D labs co-located with UK screen, studio, or performance companies to drive innovation and technology adoption in the creative industries.
Key Information: Requires minimum 50% third-party match funding; lead must be a UKRI-eligible research organisation.
Description
This grant, delivered by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) under UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), supports the creation of up to two CoSTAR Satellite Labs as part of a national network for creative research and development infrastructure. The program aims to lower barriers to technology adoption, accelerate commercialisation, and foster collaboration in the UK’s creative industries, with a particular focus on screen, performance, and emerging technologies such as generative AI. Labs must be co-located with industry partners and designed for long-term sustainability through significant co-investment.
