UKRI Translation: Impact Acceleration: CHERI IKC funds a centre to advance CHERI memory-safe hardware from research to commercial adoption, boosting UK leadership in secure digital infrastructure.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: September 17, 2026
Funding Amounts: Up to £7,700,000 (80% FEC) per award; project duration: 39 months (Jan 1, 2027 – Mar 31, 2030)
Summary: Supports establishing an Innovation and Knowledge Centre (IKC) to accelerate commercialisation and adoption of CHERI security by design technology in the UK.
Key Information: Only one IKC will be funded; strong industry collaboration and UK research organisation leadership required.
This funding opportunity aims to establish a single Innovation and Knowledge Centre (IKC) focused on advancing the commercialisation and adoption of Capability Hardware Enhanced RISC Instructions (CHERI) security by design technology. The initiative addresses the growing threat of cyber attacks by promoting memory-safe hardware solutions, facilitating the transition of CHERI from academic research to market-ready products, and positioning the UK as a global leader in secure digital infrastructure. The funded IKC will engage with industry, government, and academia to develop tools, demonstrators, and standards, ultimately driving innovation, supporting new standards, and enhancing UK competitiveness and cyber resilience.