National Composites Centre - SME Boost Programme

The purpose of the programme is to make innovative composites research and development as straightforward as possible for the UK's smaller companies, supporting activities such as feasibility studies to see how composites can help improve an idea, or upscaling an existing product to meet future requirements

We want to make innovative composites research and development as straightforward as possible for the UK’s smaller companies, and through this programme you’ll not only have access to investment, but also the breadth of world-leading skills and capabilities at the NCC.

The process for getting involved is simple: submit your idea and a business case via the link below, and a panel of composites experts at the NCC will assess it. Projects meeting the criteria will then be invited to work with the NCC Connect team to deliver the project.

You can find out more about the project criteria here. Applications will be reviewed within two working days of receipt, and if you have any questions, please email the Connect team.

Applications will be accepted from small and medium-sized businesses based in the UK.

Applicants must provide match funding to the value of the grant they are applying for, to a maximum of £25,000.

Examples of suitable project themes include, but are not limited to:

• Upscaling - a new/existing composite product challenged by future rate requirements.
• Feasibility study - a new or existing product which could be enhanced using composite materials.
• Prototyping - design, build and test of new or existing composite products.
• Sustainability assessments - reviewing the environmental impact of new or existing composite products.

The following are not eligible for funding:

• Equipment for 'business as usual' jobs.
• Loaning out tooling/equipment for 'business as usual' jobs.
• Bid writing/support.
• Meeting room bookings.