NeuMat members developing next-generation electronic materials, devices and hardware may be interested in a new Innovate UK funding opportunity that combines grant funding with private investment support. A total of up to £15 million has been allocated through the Investor Partnerships – Advanced Connectivity Technologies (ACT) and Semiconductors competition, which opened on 1 September 2026 and closes on 14 October 2026.
The competition is designed to support UK-registered SMEs working in semiconductors, including technologies that underpin artificial intelligence hardware. It forms part of a joint initiative from government departments supporting frontier digital technologies identified within the UK's Modern Industrial Strategy, while also contributing to the UK's emerging AI Hardware Plan.
For many NeuMat researchers and entrepreneurs, the most attractive aspect of the scheme may be its focus on helping innovative companies bridge the gap between technical development and commercial scale-up. The Investor Partnerships model combines Innovate UK's grant funding with investment from selected private investors, aiming to de-risk technology development while providing access to the capital required for growth and commercialisation.
The semiconductor remit is broad, covering technologies used to process, store and transmit data, including active devices, passive components and emerging electronic systems. Given NeuMat's strong interests in advanced electronic materials, neuromorphic hardware, memory technologies, semiconductor devices and AI-enabling hardware, the call is likely to be particularly relevant to members pursuing commercial translation of their research.
Projects must be led by SMEs and demonstrate clear growth potential. Applicants are required to secure engagement from one of Innovate UK's approved investor partners before applying, with evidence of investment traction such as due diligence activity, an indicative investment offer, or a term sheet. Successful projects must both meet Innovate UK's assessment criteria and attract aligned investment led or catalysed by the identified investor partner.
The competition supports projects ranging from £250,000 to £1 million for industrial research and £500,000 to £2 million for experimental development activities.
As increasing numbers of NeuMat researchers explore spin-outs, start-ups and industrial translation pathways, this competition represents a valuable opportunity to secure both innovation funding and investor engagement at a critical stage of company growth. Members considering commercialisation of novel semiconductor materials, neuromorphic technologies, AI hardware, or related device platforms are encouraged to review the call details and assess whether the Investor Partnerships route could support their ambitions.
