We know how challenging it can be for SMEs at a relatively late stage in the R&D process to secure funding. Meeting investors who have a track record in investing in start-ups at this point is critical. In response to this difficulty, Defra and Innovate UK have launched the second round of their highly successful Innovation Investor Partnership.
From Monday, June 2, UK-registered SMEs developing agri-innovation will be able to apply for a share of up to five million pounds. According to the Investor Partnership rules, this “must be aligned with private investment from selected investor partners”. Participants could also get the opportunity to pitch their business to a large pool of engaged investors.
The competition opens on Monday, June 2, 2025 and closes on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at 11am.
The competition aims to:
- Develop ambitious late-stage innovative solutions, technologies, systems or approaches that will make significant steps towards improving productivity, profitability, increasing sustainability and resilience;
- Help the agriculture sector move towards achieving Net Zero emissions by 2050; and
- Support the commercialisation of late-stage experimental development projects that are close to market and ultimately their adoption by farmers.
Proposals must demonstrate how the project will benefit farmers, growers or foresters in England.
UPP, which operates out of the UK Agri-Tech Centre’s Midlands Hub was successful in the previous round of the Investor Partnership, securing over £350,000 in grant funding from Defra, and more than £700,000 in private investment.
The UK Agri-Tech Centre’s Business Growth Manager and agri-tech investment specialist, Jos Lovegrove-Fielden said: “This is a real opportunity for businesses to meet a selected pool of engaged investors and in parallel, bring in grant funding if successful in securing investment.
“The Investor Partnerships programme provides a unique vehicle to accelerate businesses from concept and start scaling. Many companies that we work with should be encouraged to apply.
“If you are a business beginning to look at a late seed or Series A round, please consider looking.”
- For more information, click here.
- For a full list of participating investors, click here.
- A webinar for interested SMEs will take place on Thursday, June 5, at 11am: Register now.
If you would like to know more about this Farming Innovation Investor Partnership or any other current funding opportunities, please get in touch via [email protected]
