Overview
Innovate UK and EPSRC will invest up to £1.5 million through the Contracts for Innovation programme to accelerate quantum sensing technologies that address transport challenges. Phase 1 funds feasibility projects that develop use cases and business cases to improve the efficiency and resilience of transport infrastructure and platforms.
Scope
Projects must focus on second-generation quantum technologies (e.g. superposition, entanglement, single photon generation/detection) applied to transport. Activities must deliver both:
- A use case for quantum sensing in transport (technical and operational requirements, standards, security).
- An outline business case (market analysis, commercialisation strategy, economic viability).
Phase 1 will strengthen understanding of practical and commercial applications, while Phase 2 (subject to funding) will support prototype development and testing.
Key themes and topics
- Infrastructure monitoring: quantum sensors for non-destructive testing, fault prediction, inspection
- Construction and earthworks: mapping underground assets, monitoring ground conditions
- Transport platform health: NDT, sensing, and imaging for vehicles, ships, aircraft, and trains
Project duration
- Projects must start 1 January 2026 and end by 31 March 2026
- Duration: up to 3 months
Award value
- Contracts up to £40,000 (incl. VAT)
- Total competition budget: £1.5 million
Funding rates
- 100% of eligible project costs covered through a procurement contract (not a grant)
- At least 50% of contract value must be spent on R&D services (exploration, design, prototyping, field testing)
Eligibility criteria
- Open to organisations of any size, including international applicants.
- Must work alone or with subcontractors (subcontracting allowed for specialist skills).
- Contracts awarded to a single legal entity; majority of work and deliverables must be completed in the UK.
- Applicants must demonstrate a credible route to market and alignment to transport sector needs.
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