Next Wave: Breakthrough Wave 1
Supports UK businesses conducting industrial research in Createch innovation to advance digital platforms and services in frontier creative industries like games, film/TV, and music/arts.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: August 11, 2026 (competition closes, full application deadline, 11:00am UK time)
Funding Amounts: Up to £10 million total; project costs must be £100,000–£500,000; award covers up to 70% of eligible costs for SMEs.
Summary: Supports UK businesses conducting industrial research in Createch innovation aligned with the UK's industrial strategy.
Key Information: Lead applicants must be UK-registered SMEs; projects must focus on digital platforms/services in creative frontier industries.
Description
This funding opportunity, delivered by Innovate UK (part of UK Research and Innovation), aims to accelerate early-stage innovation at the intersection of creativity and technology (“Createch”) within the UK’s frontier creative industries. The grant supports industrial research projects that push the boundaries of digital platforms and services in sectors such as video games, advertising, film/TV, and music/arts. Projects should go beyond proof of concept, address industry challenges, and drive significant economic growth and competitiveness in line with the UK’s Creative Industries Sector Plan.
