Clean Futures Accelerator: Trial Opportunity for SMEs – UK

Successful applicants will have the chance to conduct a 6-month trial (2 months planning, 4 months testing) in collaboration with Coventry University.

Entering its third year and building on the success and achievements of two previous cohorts, the Clean Futures Accelerator offers a unique opportunity for 10 ambitious SMEs to accelerate the validation and commercialisation of their clean technologies. A core component of this 6-month, challenge-driven accelerator is the provision of rigorous technical trials designed to test and validate their innovative solutions in real-world scenarios. These trials are supported by a dedicated funding pool, with two levels available to suit different requirements.

Program Challenges

• Net zero manufacturing: This challenge focuses on accelerating the adoption of advanced manufacturing solutions that enable more efficient, low-carbon production.
• Future fuels and material: This challenge seeks innovative fuel and material technologies that support decarbonisation across the manufacturing and transport sectors, excluding battery-based solutions.
• Clean energy conversion: This challenge focuses on reducing wasted renewable energy by enabling its conversion and effective use.
• Circular economy: This challenge calls for innovations that reduce waste and increase the reuse or repurposing of materials in manufacturing processes.
• Open Call: In addition to the four core challenge areas, they welcome applications that broadly support the aims of the Clean Futures Accelerator and the wider transition to a Net Zero economy. The Open Challenge offers flexibility for SMEs with high-potential solutions that may not align precisely with one of the defined themes but still contribute meaningfully to the West Midlands’ clean growth agenda.

Benefits

• Up to £50K funding
• Technical facilities & support
• Bespoke commercial consultancy
• Coaching & mentoring
• Networking & showcase opportunities
• Business development opportunities

Funding Information

• A total funding pot of £300,000 has been made available with projects receiving £10,000 to £50,000 each.
• The programme offers Standard Trials, funded between £10,000 and £25,000 and Comprehensive Trials, with potential funding ranging from £25,001 up to £50,000.
• In addition to the technical trial opportunities, participating SMEs will benefit from commercial support valued at up to £250,000.

Eligibility Criteria

• Required:
  • A registered United Kingdom company address.
  • Registration or operational base within the West Midlands region.
  • Demonstrable alignment of the proposed solution to one of the specific programme challenges.
  • Commitment to undertake travel to and attendance at all scheduled face-to-face meetings and events held within the West Midlands.
  • Commitment to complete the development, testing, or demonstration of the proposed solution within a real or relevant environment, utilising Coventry University test site facilities.
  • Provision of in-kind match funding equivalent to 100% of the requested funding amount (e.g. personnel costs, materials).
• Encouraged:
  • A registered United Kingdom company address located within the West Midlands Combined Authority region.
  • An innovative technology or solution currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 or above.

For more information, visit Catapult.