The Scottish Government's Techscaler programme is committed to supporting Scotland’s growing tech ecosystem, and we’re excited to introduce a powerful funding opportunity that can help tech startups take the next step: the Techscaler Minimum Viable Product (MVP) Small R&D Grant, offered in collaboration with Scottish Enterprise.
If you’re an early-stage tech company with ambitions to innovate and scale, this grant could be a game changer for your research and development (R&D) projects. Here’s what you need to know:
What is the Techscaler MVP Grant?
The Techscaler MVP Grant provides funding for tech startups and scaleups based in Scotland, helping them bring new products, processes, or services to life. This grant, with awards ranging from £5,000 to £50,000, is specifically designed to support R&D activities that can drive innovation in high-growth industries across the nation.
Importantly, the grant is available to companies that have participated in the Techscaler Programme that have been mentored by CodeBase. While not all companies who participate in the programme will qualify, those who do could see their project costs supported up to 45% for smaller companies (with fewer than 50 employees) and 35% for medium-sized enterprises (with 50 to 250 employees).
Are you eligible for the MVP Grant?
To be eligible for this funding, your company must meet specific criteria:
- Participation in Techscaler: Your startup must have participated in the Techscaler Programme and have been actively mentored by CodeBase.
- Scottish Incorporation: Your business must be based in Scotland.
- Company Size: Your company should have 250 or fewer employees.
- Growth Potential: You need to demonstrate a clear growth plan, international ambitions, and a credible strategy for scaling your business.
- Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability: Evidence that your startup is innovation-driven, working towards net-zero emissions, and has valuable intellectual property is crucial.
- Economic Impact: The business should have a significant potential to impact Scotland’s economy, either by serving large markets or scaling internationally.
Eligible businesses should also be able to show preliminary customer interest, a strong team of founders or early employees, and a commitment to fair work practices.
How much funding can you receive?
The minimum grant amount is £5,000, with the maximum being £50,000. However, the grant will only cover a portion of your project’s eligible costs:
- For smaller companies (fewer than 50 employees): Up to 45% of project costs.
- For medium-sized enterprises (50-250 employees): Up to 35% of project costs.
The remaining costs must be covered by other funding sources. Projects typically last between 6 to 9 months, though some may extend up to 18 months in special circumstances.
What can the grant be used for?
The MVP grant can help fund several key R&D activities, including:
- Feasibility Studies: Exploring project viability.
- Prototyping and Testing: Developing and validating new or significantly improved products.
- Industrial Research: Gaining new knowledge and skills to enhance product development.
Eligible costs that the grant can cover include staff salaries, hired specialists, third-party consultancy services, subcontractors, materials, and capital equipment.
How do you apply?
Here’s the great news: you don’t need to do anything to start the application process. If your company is eligible for the MVP grant, then please discuss this with your mentor and they can make the referral.
However, it’s essential to note that businesses already involved in another grant project with Scottish Enterprise are advised to wait until the conclusion of that funding before applying for the MVP grant. If your startup already has active grant funding, approval is less likely unless a compelling case can be made for the distinction between the two projects.
It’s also important to note that all grant funding decisions are at the sole discretion of Scottish Enterprise, South of Scotland Enterprise, or Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
Why isn't the MVP Grant available to everyone?
This grant is currently limited to companies that are undergoing mentorship through Techscaler. This focus ensures that the businesses considered for the MVP grant are at the right stage to benefit most from R&D funding, with a clear path to growth and scalability.
What next?
If you’re ready to supercharge your startup’s growth, this could be the perfect opportunity to access vital funding. With the support of the Techscaler MVP Small R&D Grant, your startup can accelerate its journey toward product/market fit, commercial success, and global expansion.
Remember, if you’re eligible, please discuss this with your mentor. For more information about the Techscaler programme or the MVP grant, get in touch.
This is your chance to take your tech innovation to the next level, right here in Scotland.
Join Techscaler
If our education courses are of interest to you, apply for Techscaler membership. Membership is for people working in startups who are at all stages of the startup journey, from ideation through to scaling phase, based in Scotland, and with ambitions to grow their business. Fill in the application form and Team Techscaler will get back to you as soon as possible to let you know your suitability for Techscaler membership and benefits available to you.
You can also keep up to date with our tech events and sign up to receive the latest news from Techscaler and the Scottish tech ecosystem.
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