Research commercialisation - Proof of Concept Fund 2026-2027: guidance
The Scottish Proof of Concept Fund is open to researchers based at Scottish universities with innovative ideas and will provide support for early to mid stage commercialisation activities. The fund will be open for applications from 1 April until 8 May 2026
About this fund
This fund supports projects at the early to mid-stages of commercialisation — helping researchers test whether their innovative ideas have real commercial potential.
We welcome applications from all sectors and disciplines. Projects can explore commercialisation through licencing, or by creating a company (including spinouts and social ventures).
Funding tiers
Tier 1: £50,000 – £124,999
This tier is for projects at an early stage. To apply, you must be able to show that:
- you have a unique idea or technology
- there is a commercial opportunity for it
Tier 1 funding should be used for early technical or commercial validation of your idea.
Tier 2: £125,000 – £250,000
This tier is for projects that are more developed. To apply, you must be able to show:
- evidence of a commercialisation opportunity (for example, customer feedback)
- a well-developed commercialisation plan
- a clear intellectual property (IP) plan
Tier 2 funding should be used to develop your technology or commercial offer to meet user or market needs.
Contact
Email: spinouts@gov.scot