Worcestershire-based women innovators and founders in advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, or life sciences can now apply for the Women in Innovation Awards 2025/26 – a UK grant and support programme delivered by Innovate UK (UKRI).
This initiative is designed to accelerate the growth of women-led businesses with high-potential innovations, offering both grant funding and bespoke business support.
What’s on Offer
Successful applicants will receive:
-
Up to £75,000 in grant funding to accelerate business growth and innovation.
-
12 months of tailored support, including mentoring, coaching, training, investor readiness and networking opportunities.
-
A chance to act as a role model and inspire future women innovators through dedicated activities.
A portion of highly commended applicants who do not receive funding may still be offered the bespoke support package.
Who Can Apply
This competition is open to women who are:
-
Founders or co-founders of UK-registered SMEs, registered on Companies House and based in the UK.
-
Leading a late-stage start-up with a prototype or MVP, early traction, and a clear plan for scalable growth.
-
Developing an innovation that is new to the market or a significant improvement on existing solutions, aligned with one of the UK’s high-growth sectors:
-
Advanced Manufacturing
-
Digital and Technologies
-
Life Science
-
Applicants must be UK residents and must commit to minimum amounts of training and role-modelling activity over the award period.
Key Dates
-
Competition opens: 26 November 2025
-
Application deadline: 4 February 2026 at 11:00am (UK time)
-
Project start date (if funded): 1 July 2026
-
Project end date: 30 June 2027
Apply and Get Support
Learn more and start your application:
Women in Innovation Awards 2025/26 – GOV-UK
If you’re a Worcestershire founder seeking support with eligibility checks, applications or pitch preparation, contact the Worcestershire Growth Hub team for tailored assistance.
