The University of Essex has partnered with County Hall and the Essex Growth Agency to launch a new fund which will help businesses develop new ideas and drive growth.
The Innovate Essex Fund will help businesses turn new ideas into commercial success. It will boost productivity, support growth and create new opportunities across Essex.
It could also remove some of the barriers that businesses often face when innovating. These include access to finance, research and development support and testing new ideas.
The fund is open to eligible start-ups, SMEs and social enterprises based in Essex or with significant operations in the county.
The fund will provide grants of up to £15,000 and supports the council’s ambition to make Essex a leading economic powerhouse.
Funding will be available through three strands:
- Explore - grants of up to £5,000 to test early-stage ideas and assess market opportunities
- Develop - grants from £5,000 to £15,000 to pilot and refine innovative products, services or processes
- Scale - up to £15,000 worth of specialist support from the University of Essex
Professor Frances Bowen, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Essex, said: "We are proud to partner with Essex Growth Agency and Essex County Council on the Innovate Essex Fund.
“By combining our world-leading expertise in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital technologies, sustainability, health, business and social innovation with dedicated funding support, we’re empowering businesses to innovate, overcome challenges and accelerate growth.
“As a key part of our region’s ecosystem, we are committed to helping local businesses access cutting-edge research, bring innovative products and services to market, and seize opportunities that drive commercial success.
“Together, we’re creating lasting economic and social impact and strengthening Essex as a place where innovation thrives.”
Councillor Peter Harris, Leader of Essex County Council, added: "Essex has all the ingredients needed to be one of the most dynamic economies in the country. It is home to ambitious businesses, talented people and world-class research. This fund will help bring them together to unlock new opportunities for growth.
"The Innovate Essex Fund will help businesses turn great ideas into commercial success. In turn that will create high-value jobs and drive growth across our county.
"With the support of the University of Essex, businesses will have access to the funding and expertise they need to innovate, grow and compete. Backing innovation is central to helping Essex realise its full economic potential."
Applications open in October 2026, with successful projects expected to begin from January 2027.
Further information is available on Essex Growth Agency website.
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