CoSTAR Showcase Labs: Createch infrastructure and commercialisation
UK Research and Innovation funds CoSTAR Showcase Labs to boost creative technology R&D, focusing on generative AI, commercialisation, and regional access across the UK's creative industries.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: October 29, 2026 (Full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to £4 million per Showcase Lab (3-year duration); total fund £8 million; requires at least 50% third-party match funding.
Summary: Funds advanced national R&D infrastructure to drive creative technology innovation, commercialisation, and regional access in the UK creative industries.
Key Information: Lead applicants must be UK-based, eligible research organisations with strong industry and local authority partnerships; significant co-investment required.
Description
This grant opportunity supports the creation of up to two CoSTAR Showcase Labs, designed to expand the UK's national research and development infrastructure for the creative sector. The programme aims to lower barriers for technology adoption, accelerate commercialization pathways, and foster innovation in creative technologies—especially generative AI and near-market solutions. Funded by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) via UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), the initiative seeks to enhance regional access, network cohesion, and industry collaboration, positioning the UK as a global leader in creative technology.
The Showcase Labs will serve as hubs for advanced R&D facilities, supporting creative businesses with state-of-the-art technology, staff, and access programmes. The focus is on enabling faster progression from R&D to commercialisation, driving investment, and supporting long-term sustainability in the creative industries.
