UKRI Translation: BBSRC Proof of Concept 2026
Forecasted
UKRI Translation: BBSRC Proof of Concept 2026 supports researchers turning bioscience discoveries into products, services and solutions to deliver economic, societal or environmental benefits to the UK.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates (Anticipated): October 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: £100,000–£800,000 full economic cost for up to 24 months; BBSRC funds 80% (maximum £640,000)
Summary: Supports translation of BBSRC-supported bioscience research into products, services and solutions delivering economic, societal or environmental benefits.
Key Information: Applicants must be based at an eligible UK research organisation and have a direct link to current or previous BBSRC support.
Description
The Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), part of UK Research and Innovation, runs Proof of Concept to help researchers translate bioscience discoveries into practical innovations. Formerly the Follow-on Fund, the programme supports early-stage work to reduce commercial risks and later-stage development involving significant technical milestones. Projects should advance existing research outputs towards commercialisation, adoption or deployment rather than fund new research or extend existing grants.
The programme seeks defined development plans grounded in an understanding of market needs and opportunities for intellectual assets. Projects must primarily deliver significant economic, societal or environmental benefit to the UK, although international markets may also benefit. Industry and user involvement is strongly encouraged to shape development and routes to market.
