SMART: SCOTLAND

Overview

The SMART: SCOTLAND grant supports ambitious, high-risk research and development (R&D) projects led by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) based in Scotland. The funding helps businesses test the technical and commercial feasibility of innovative ideas — turning early-stage concepts into commercially viable solutions that can drive Scotland’s economic transformation.

Priority is given to projects contributing to national innovation goals across key sectors such as energy transition, space, industrial biotechnology, life sciences, fintech, and critical technologies including quantum, photonics, and semiconductors.

Scope

Funding is available for feasibility studies that demonstrate whether your idea could work in practice and lead to future commercial success. Projects must align with Scotland’s economic priorities and innovation sectors, and applicants must hold or have rights to any intellectual property (IP) generated.

Key themes and topics

• Feasibility and proof-of-concept R&D studies
• Innovation in priority sectors such as energy, space, biotech, and digital technology
• IP generation and commercialisation potential
• Contributions to Scotland’s Fair Work and Net Zero commitments

Project duration

Projects must run for between 6 and 18 months.

Award value

Maximum grant: £100,000.

• Small enterprises: up to 70% of eligible project costs
• Medium enterprises: up to 60% of eligible project costs
  Payments are made one-third upfront, with the remainder paid quarterly in arrears.

Funding rates

Funding covers eligible feasibility study costs at varying rates depending on company size. Match funding from private sources must be secured or clearly planned before application.

Eligibility criteria

• Applicant must be an SME, university spin-out, or individual based (or intending to base) operations in Scotland
• Project must be technically and financially viable with clear commercial potential
• Must comply with Scottish Government Fair Work and Net Zero requirements, including:
  • Paying the Real Living Wage
  • Supporting workforce development and flexible working
  • Having a credible plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2045
• Must demonstrate ownership and protection of intellectual property