BBSRC Innovation to Commercialisation of University Research (ICURe) Explore 2026

This programme is aimed at helping bioscience research teams from across the UK to explore technology applications and test value propositions through extensive market engagement globally. It is designed using the lean start-up methodology, which applies the scientific method (hypothesise, test and evaluate) to business ideas. The programme provides funding of up to £35,000, which includes up to £20,000 for the Entrepreneurial Lead's salary and up to £15,000 for assumption testing and customer discovery activities. The programme includes a four-day intensive bootcamp training on how to develop a hypothetical business model and identify customers' pain points, followed by three months to test value propositions through extensive market engagement. Participants gain access to a team of experts, a national community of past ICURe participants, and the opportunity to pitch to experienced panels of bioscience investors and funders. This funding opportunity is open to bioscience PhD students, researchers and technicians in UK universities, BBSRC-funded institutes, and UKRI-approved public sector research enterprises who have completed ICURe Discover.