First Step Awards – University of Glasgow

General Information:

First Step Awards are provided by the University of Glasgow as part of their new Innovation Network and funds partnerships involving feasibility studies between Scottish SMEs and researchers from the University.

The Innovation Network is a £2.3M initiative which has been designed to increase engagement by Scottish companies in innovation, product development and new supply chains.

In order to stimulate academic and industrial engagement, financial support of up to £5,000 per project is available for small projects between the University and Scottish SMEs (Small to Medium-sized Enterprises).

How to Apply:

Applications for a First Step Award can be made by either the company or the academic. The funding will be used to buy out academic time spent on the project.

SME participants will be expected to make a contribution to the project, which can be in kind.

To encourage participants, maximise the effectiveness of the programme and deliver result to each SME, a fast and effective application process has been established. You will be notified of the outcome of your application within 20 working days of applying.

There are no deadlines, submissions can be made at anytime. The application form can be downloaded from their website:

Eligibility:

These Awards are focused on helping to create long-term collaborations between small companies and the University of Glasgow, especially new partnerships.

Priority will be given to projects that assess both the potential and feasibility of a new product, process or market and can lead to opportunities to attract follow-on funding from existing sources, demonstrate a clear route to market or indicate a step change in current processes within a Micro or Small Enterprise.

Visit this Website: First Step Awards