Innovation funding, coupled with tailored support, will be awarded to businesswomen in the UK who have enterprising ideas and the potential to become leaders in innovation and deliver economic growth.

Innovate UK (IUK) first launched Women in Innovation in 2016, after research revealed that just one in seven applications for IUK support came from women. IUK believes that boosting the number of female entrepreneurs could deliver £250 million to the economy.

The 2022-23 Women in Innovation Awards aim to fund and support women with innovative ideas and ambitious plans that will inspire others. Applicants must be confident, with the support of an award, that they can make a significant contribution to a pressing societal, environmental and/or economic challenge through projects across a variety of innovation areas.

IUK has allocated at least £2.5 million for at least 50 awards at £50,000 each. In addition to the grant funding, all award holders will receive a package of mentoring, coaching and business support tailored to their needs. Access to relevant facilities and equipment will also be provided where this is appropriate.

To be eligible for an award, the applicant must be a female founder, co-founder or senior decision maker within a UK registered micro or SME business which has been operating for at least 12 months.

Applications will be accepted from 22 August 2022 until 19 October 2022 (11:00 BST).

How To Apply

The competition opens on Monday 22 August 2022 and closes on Wednesday 19 October 2022 (11:00 BST).

Applications are made online at the programme website.

For more information, visit the UK Government website.