The AHRC, following their success with the Follow On Fund for Impact and Engagement, are launching a Commercialisation highlight call, which is designed to encourage entrepreneurial researchers from across the UK to find successful routes to market and develop the exploitation and commercialisation aspects of their research.

Funds awarded under this call will support the successful translation of arts and humanities research ideas, outcomes and outputs into products and services that benefit the UK economy and society. This could include service, lifestyle or social enterprise models, joint ventures with industry, copyright and licensing agreements or preparation for the development or creation of a spin-out company.

We expect you to work with potential partners, industry and tech transfer/KE offices to develop commercial ideas and concepts to further your research impact.

Please note that this is open to unforeseen opportunities that have emerged within current research projects as well as those that have completed a successful project.​

Eligible activities may include:

• initial stage feasibility testing or scoping studies to determine the realistic commercial potential of an idea including the IP position
• seeking and acquiring the relevant knowledge, skills and experiences to identify a clear commercial strategy for creating a new venture e.g. working with industry experts on the best commercial development strategies
• exploration of potential routes to market including market research to determine likely potential, competitiveness and business opportunities
• development of proof of concept or prototypes and user testing
• seeking and developing contacts with business angels, venture capitalists, entrepreneurs, business development agencies or exploring opportunities for joint ventures with interested parties

Ineligible activities;

• Patent filing costs

How to make an application