ICURe Explore (Innovation to Commercialisation of University Research)
ICURe Explore
Status not published
Runs as cohorts through the year. For the October 2026 cohort: applications opened 20 July 2026, close 4 September 2026, programme starts 14 October 2026 (hybrid delivery).
Up to £35,000 per team, of which a maximum of £20,000 is for the Entrepreneurial Lead's salary, with the balance funding assumption testing and customer discovery activities.
Innovate UK (UK Research and Innovation)
public · national
Deadline: cutoff — Runs as cohorts through the year. For the October 2026 cohort: applications opened 20 July 2026, close 4 September 2026, programme starts 14 October 2026 (hybrid delivery).
This funder does not publish a success rate. We rank it using the rate observed across similar programmes and label it as an estimate rather than implying we know.
Moderate — a form and supporting documents.
Who can apply
- Sectors: deeptech, health, climate, any
- Stage: idea, pre_seed
- R&D activity required
- Locally registered entity required
Aimed at university/research teams commercialising research, not at already-incorporated companies. Requires full-time participation for 12-16 weeks and prior completion of ICURe Discover.
How to apply
- Complete ICURe Discover — a prerequisite for Explore. — link
- Apply to an ICURe Explore cohort during its application window. — link
- If selected, take part in the 12-16 week full-time market exploration programme with the Entrepreneurial Lead conducting customer discovery.
What you will need
- ICURe Explore application form
- Evidence of ICURe Discover completion
Source. https://iuk-business-connect.org.uk/opportunities/icure-explore/ — checked 2026-08-14
"A fast-paced, full-time, 12-16-week market exploration programme ... Up to £35,000 per team, with a maximum of £20,000 for the Entrepreneurial Lead's salary"