The new Switzerland–UK Call for Projects, launched by Innosuisse and Innovate UK, offers a unique opportunity to build research and development partnerships with British organisations and accelerate the path to market for innovative solutions. The programme supports collaborative projects with strong commercial potential and provides funding on both sides of the partnership.
Why this call matters
The United Kingdom remains one of Europe’s most dynamic innovation ecosystems, with world-class universities, leading industrial clusters and a strong appetite for technology adoption.
For Swiss companies, this call is more than a funding opportunity. It is a gateway to:
- Access new customers and markets
- Develop international R&D collaborations
- Strengthen technological competitiveness
- Accelerate product validation and commercialisation
- Build long-term strategic partnerships in the UK
Projects must demonstrate clear commercial potential and create value through collaboration between Swiss and UK partners.
Who should apply?
The call is particularly relevant for:
- Startups developing breakthrough technologies
- SMEs seeking international growth opportunities
- Scale-ups preparing market expansion
- Research-driven companies looking for industrial partners
- Organisations active in life sciences, engineering biology, semiconductors and deep tech innovation
Consortia must include at least one business from Switzerland and one business from the UK. In most cases, a research institution must also participate. Swiss pre-market startups may benefit from specific exceptions.
Whether you are developing medical technologies, industrial biotech solutions, digital health applications or advanced manufacturing processes, this call offers an opportunity to scale innovation beyond national borders.
The programme specifically supports collaborative R&D projects leading to innovative products, services or applications with clear market potential.
Looking for a UK partner?
Finding the right partner is often the biggest challenge.
To facilitate matchmaking, dedicated networking and partner-search platforms are available to help Swiss and UK organisations identify complementary expertise and build strong consortia.
BioArk can also help connect companies with the regional innovation ecosystem and relevant support networks.
Key dates
The third Switzerland–UK bilateral innovation call is currently open, with applications expected until early September 2026. An information webinar organised by Innovate UK and its partners is also available for interested applicants.
International collaboration can accelerate innovation, reduce development risks and open doors to new markets.
If your company is preparing its next innovation project, now may be the right time to build a Swiss–UK partnership and transform an ambitious idea into a commercial success.
➡️ Learn more and apply: https://www.innosuisse.admin.ch/en/switzerland-uk-call-for-projects
