UKRI's CHERI IKC grant funds a research centre to accelerate the commercial adoption of CHERI security technology and advance secure digital infrastructure in the UK.
Funder: UK Research and Innovation
Due Dates: September 17, 2026 (Full application/closing date)
Funding Amounts: Up to £7,700,000 (80% FEC) for a 39-month project; funding available until March 31, 2030; one IKC will be funded.
Summary: Supports the creation of an Innovation and Knowledge Centre to accelerate commercial adoption of CHERI security technology and strengthen the UK's secure by design digital infrastructure.
Key Information: Only one IKC will be funded; significant industry partnership and support required; focus strictly on CHERI memory-safe chipset architecture.
This opportunity funds the establishment of a single Innovation and Knowledge Centre (IKC) dedicated to advancing the commercialisation and adoption of Capability Hardware Enhanced RISC Instructions (CHERI) security by design technology. The grant aims to bridge the gap between academic research and market-ready products, driving the transition of CHERI from research into widespread commercial use. The IKC will collaborate closely with industry, government, and regulatory bodies, focusing on raising the technology readiness level of CHERI, promoting deployment of CHERI-enabled chipsets, and building a robust UK ecosystem for secure digital infrastructure. The centre must demonstrate strong industry engagement, deliver impactful research and innovation, and provide a clear strategy for commercial exploitation and long-term sustainability.