Are you a local SME with a project to develop a new product or service, and looking for funding? 

Our innovation grant scheme could be for you if: 

– Your project is developed enough, and 

– You are able to put some of your own funding into it too.

You can apply at any time for a grant from £1,000 to £5,000 until March 2021 (or until funding has been fully allocated). This should be topped up by an equal contribution from your business. 

Why are we offering these grants?

The Innovation SuperNetwork is the network for innovation support in the North East of England. We bring together 60 partner organisations and some 5,000 businesses to maximise the impact and efficiency of innovation support to regional businesses. We do this by connecting you with the right expertise, market opportunities and finance via our flagship events, VentureFest North East  and FinanceCamp North East, plus a programme of activity working with regional cluster organisations to help accelerate innovation activity. With this, the SuperNetwork is an integral part of the North East LEP’s Strategic Economic Plan (SEP).

The North East LEP’s refreshed SEP identifies support for innovation in four areas of strategic importance: Digital, Advanced Manufacturing, Health and Life Sciences and Energy. Plus, four services sectors: education, financial, professional and business services. 

Our grant scheme is designed to catalyse innovation activities in these areas by providing funding and advice via relevant cluster organisations.

How to apply

It is a 2-stage process: 

– Submit an Expression of Interest and download the grant guidance.

– If you’re eligible, we’ll then send you the application form to complete and return.