The AberInnovation Solutions Catalyst accelerator programme supported by UKRI - BBSRC returns for its fifth round. The programme is designed to accelerate research and development, support knowledge transfer from expert academics, and connect innovative companies to the wider UKRI Campus network.
Successful applicants receive a package of support including:
Are you developing a solution that addresses a market need in food & drink, industrial biotechnology, by‑product re‑use, or agri‑tech? Do you have a concept that requires technical testing to demonstrate feasibility?
If you are working in feed, food, or the circular economy, and you are building a company with the potential to become high‑growth, the Solutions Catalyst programme is designed to help you progress toward future funding opportunities, including future Innovate UK applications.
The programme offers companies a voucher worth up to £30,000 to accelerate R&D through supervised access to AberInnovation’s state‑of‑the‑art facilities, capabilities, and academic expertise at Aberystwyth University. We encourage applicants who want to be embedded within the AberInnovation environment, making practical, hands‑on use of our labs, equipment, and pilot‑scale facilities to fast‑track technical development and unlock future funding opportunities.
A briefing event will be held online on Wednesday 27th May at 11am for FAQs and further details - you can register here.
AberInnovation is deeply integrated into Aberystwyth University’s research and innovation ecosystem, supporting the University’s mission to deliver impact from research outputs.
Participants should propose a project that includes:
The subsidy is provided as a voucher (credit) redeemable at AberInnovation. A full overview of available equipment and capabilities for early‑stage research can be found in the facilities brochure in the application pack. Please download and read the full application pack thoroughly.
Organisations that are not currently a tenant or member are welcome to apply and commit to becoming a tenant or member upon selection.
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Competition opens – 13th May 2026
Briefing event & FAQs (online) – 27th May 2026
Competition closes – 22nd June 2026 - 5pm
Successful applicants notified – 13th July 2026
Inception workshop/meetings – From 20th July 2026
Projects start – August 2026
Projects end – March 2027
Showcase event - TBC 2027
We’re excited to announce the launch of the Solutions Catalyst: Follow-On Fund, made possible through the support of Ceredigion County Council, the UK Government & the BBSRC.
This funding opportunity is designed exclusively for Solutions Catalyst alumni, enabling them to build on their progress and take their R&D projects to the next stage.
The fund offers a £30,000 voucher to support further development, innovation, and impact.
You are required to demonstrate a meaningful presence as a business in Ceredigion to access this funding.
The deadline for alumni applications is currently closed.