Innovate UK will be providing grants of up to £700 for UK businesses to attend research and development (R&D) events across Europe, helping them network with potential Horizon research partners and collaborate on projects.
The travel awards aim to facilitate international connections and enhance participation in Horizon Europe, the world’s largest research collaboration programme.
The Government is driving efforts to boost involvement in Horizon Europe, which runs from 2021 to 2027 and has a budget of £80bn.
The programme supports research and innovation tackling critical challenges such as healthcare breakthroughs, green energy solutions, and productivity-enhancing technologies like AI.
Science and Technology Secretary Peter Kyle said: “Everyone knew what a big job we had on our hands to restore the UK’s place as the natural R&D partner to our neighbours, when we associated to Horizon a year ago.
“But the brilliance of our scientists and businesses was never in doubt, and the green shoots of recovery are breaking through.
“In 2025, it really is now or never to truly reap the benefits of Horizon association.
“This year we will pull every lever at our disposal to help Britain’s innovators seize the opportunities for funding and collaboration that are open to them.
“Only by backing our brightest minds to get their ideas out of the lab and into the economy, will we be able to fulfil our mission of national renewal as part of our Plan for Change.”