Manufacturing Scale-up Network Plus
Manufacturing Scale-up Network Plus supports researchers and industry through networking and early-stage projects to accelerate manufacturing scale-up, primarily in automotive and aerospace.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: November 11, 2026 (Intent to Submit) | December 9, 2026 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: One Network Plus: up to £4.5 million at 80% full economic cost, for up to five years
Summary: Supports a UK-wide collaborative network to accelerate manufacturing scale-up, primarily in automotive and aerospace.
Key Information: An Intent to Submit is compulsory; applications without one will not be considered.
Description
UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) will fund one Network Plus through its IS8+ Priority Programme for Advanced Manufacturing, with EPSRC managing the opportunity. The network will connect researchers, manufacturers, supply chains, investors, policymakers and innovation organisations to address barriers between research and industrial deployment. Automotive and aerospace must be its primary focus, with wider impact in batteries, space, advanced materials and related technologies.
The award combines a 12-month scoping phase with a 48-month network phase. Capability mapping, international benchmarking, horizon scanning and community engagement will inform a shared evidence base and industry-informed strategic roadmap. A national conference or showcase will bring stakeholders together during the first year. Externally distributed flexible funding will support feasibility studies, pump-priming research, early-stage testing and new collaborations up to technology readiness level 4, strengthening commercialisation pathways and informing future investment.
