Research and knowledge exchange vouchers

We have exciting voucher schemes that can provide you with access to academic knowledge to help you generate new ideas and innovate your business.

Innovation Vouchers

You can use Innovation Vouchers to access our research and innovation support at ARU. You will have access to our facilities, world class academics and researchers to develop your ideas and make them a reality.

Businesses can access advice (consultancy) on how to develop an innovative idea or learn more about diversifying their business through R&D activities.

Innovation Vouchers are funded up to the value of £5,000, however, we ask that businesses provide 25% of in-kind activity to secure the voucher. This can include staff time, access to materials or equipment, and engagement with ARU to support an exciting range of activities.

For example, if you applied for the maximum voucher value of £5,000, you would need to support £1,250 of in-kind activity.

Am I eligible?

The scheme is open to SMEs based in the UK seeking to build an ongoing relationship with ARU.

Your research project, product or service will need to be:

• innovative and contribute towards future growth
• consultancy, research, continual professional development or network creation and development focused
• requiring either academic or professional expert support
• link to relevant ARU faculty research and innovation capabilities
• demonstrate delivery of a long-term benefit for the University.

Please note there are a limited amount of Innovation Vouchers available.

Proof of Concept Vouchers

Proof of Concept Vouchers are a wonderful opportunity to collaborate with ARU. Working in a similar way to the Innovation Vouchers but in reverse, Proof of Concept Vouchers support ARU academics to test ideas with external partners in the outside world. Businesses will gain insight into current research and innovation activities at ARU, and support the testing and evaluation of ideas in practice.

Like the Innovation Vouchers, proof of concept projects are a great way to make excellent links with ARU, where businesses will gain valuable access to advice on how to diversify and innovate their business.

We’ll work with you to learn more about your needs and how we might be able to help you.

Get in touch

Find out more and register your interest for either voucher scheme by contacting [email protected].

You can also take advantage of our Open Innovation Workshops.